Okubo Toshimichi

As Finance Minister, Okubo oversaw the Land Tax Reform of 1873, which replaced the feudal land tax with a modern monetary tax system. This reform stabilized government finances and facilitated the transition to a capitalist economy.

Okubo created the Home Ministry (Naimusho) to centralize administrative control over local governments. The ministry oversaw police, public works, and local administration, strengthening the central government's authority.

Okubo argued against the proposal to invade Korea (Seikanron), advocating instead for domestic reforms. His opposition prevailed, leading to the resignation of Saigo Takamori and other expansionists, and solidifying the Meiji government's focus on internal modernization.

Okubo, as a key leader of the Meiji government, directed the suppression of the Satsuma Rebellion led by Saigo Takamori. The government's victory ended the last major samurai uprising and consolidated imperial rule.

Okubo was assassinated by samurai from the Satsuma domain who opposed his policies of centralization and Westernization. His death removed a key figure from the Meiji government, but his reforms continued.