Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book begins by identifying the specific patterns of historical evolution that Japanese local government followed as against other possible alternatives. It presents the actual course of events that led the central government to its failure. The book examines a causal chain between the failure of the central government and a delegation system chosen in the developmental path of national integration between central and local government. It identifies sources of internal conflict within the local community, to examine how the community power structure influenced the ability of the progressive mayor of Settsu City to direct new policy, and how his skill and drive contributed to the lawsuit. The book discusses how local leaders and alliances were able to successfully adapt to and manipulate the existing institutions to gain some degree of political autonomy against the wishes of the central government.