To understand how Japan came to wage war on the United States and Australia in 1941, it is necessary first to trace the path taken by Japan to World War II, and the manner in which it became a partner of Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy in a partnership for world domination by military aggression.

An examination of Japan's history prior to World War II reveals a disturbing picture of ingrained militarism, authoritarian rule, and a citizenry conditioned to obedience to authority.

Japanese troops believed that the Samurai spirit made them
invincible. Here they scream their battle cry "banzai".