Okuma Shigenobu

ModernPoliticianJapan1838 — 1922

Founder of Waseda University, twice prime minister.

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Quick Facts

Born

1838

Died

1922

Country

Japan

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)19

Political (20%)72

Influence (20%)55

Legacy (20%)52

Leadership (15%)66

Strategy (15%)35

Total Score52.9

Okuma Shigenobu — Complete Timeline

1881 AD

Advocacy for constitutional governmentPolitical Action

Okuma Shigenobu advocated for a British-style parliamentary system and the establishment of a national assembly. He was forced out of the government for his views, but his advocacy contributed to the eventual creation of the Diet.

Political reformDemocracy

Impact: nationalprogressive

1882 AD

Founding of Waseda UniversityCultural◆ Major

Okuma Shigenobu founded Tokyo Senmon Gakko, later renamed Waseda University. The institution became one of Japan's leading private universities, emphasizing liberal arts and practical learning.

EducationUniversity

Impact: nationalconstructive

1898 AD

First term as Prime MinisterPolitical Action◆ Major

Okuma Shigenobu became Prime Minister of Japan in 1898, leading the first party cabinet under the Kenseito party. His government lasted only four months due to internal party conflicts, but it marked a step toward parliamentary democracy.

GovernmentDemocracy

Impact: national

1914 AD

Second term as Prime Minister and Twenty-One DemandsPolitical Action◆ Major

Okuma Shigenobu served as Prime Minister again from 1914 to 1916. His government issued the Twenty-One Demands to China, seeking to expand Japanese influence. The demands caused international controversy and strained Sino-Japanese relations.

Foreign policyImperialism

Impact: regionaldestructive