Nobusuke Kishi

As prime minister, Kishi pursued policies to stimulate economic growth, including tax cuts, increased public works, and support for heavy industry. He also worked to normalize Japan's international standing, securing membership in the United Nations in 1956 and promoting trade with Southeast Asia.

As prime minister, Nobusuke Kishi pushed through the revised US-Japan Security Treaty in January 1960, which strengthened the bilateral alliance and allowed US forces to remain in Japan. The treaty's ratification sparked massive protests and a political crisis, leading to Kishi's resignation shortly after its passage.

Kishi's government used police force to suppress the massive demonstrations against the Security Treaty, including the controversial decision to call in riot police to clear the Diet building. The crackdown deepened public anger and damaged Kishi's reputation, contributing to his decision to step down.