Japan is developed and rich country inspire of no natural resources. ...
1 Although Japan is not very rich in mineral resources, they compensate it with their famously frugal with their consumable resources. What little they have they compensate it with expert skill and management.
2 Successive governments of Japan developed a very competitive and innovative culture where a healthy trade existed.
3 When European countries interacted with Japan and even tried to dominate them, they keenly learnt the European science and techniques.
4 Industrial revolution also arrived during the Meiji period. Japanese textiles competed with European manufacturers. In 19th century itself they employed women.
5 When feudal system transformed during the Meiji period their social structure adapted well and trade flourished.
6 Japan promoted western influenced education very actively in their society. It benefited the country significantly. They followed western style capitalism.
7 The government played the role of enabler of growth. All of this in 19th century itself so that Japan was well geared for 20th century.
8 The political and military transformation was also very significant. Although the society was highly militaristic, trade and economy flourished.
9 Wars did impact the trade very badly. During WW I, Japan was on the side of the victorious Axis powers (UK, France, USA etc).
10 Japan went to acquire foreign lands, attracted by the minerals in those Asian countries. They began by conquering Korea and later attacked USA as they had great shortage of oil. They wanted to conquer the Dutch East Indian islands which were rich in oil wealth.