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Emperor Taishō's death in 1926 thrust his son, Prince Hirohito, onto the throne
Featured Event 1926 Event

December 25

Emperor Taishō Dies: Hirohito Ascends to the Throne

Emperor Taishō's death in 1926 thrust his son, Prince Hirohito, onto the throne as Emperor Shōwa just as Japan faced mounting international pressure and internal militarism. This transition cemented a reign that would steer the nation through rapid industrialization, the rise of ultranationalism, and ultimately into World War II, defining the country's modern trajectory for decades.

December 25, 1926

100 years ago

What Else Happened on December 25

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