ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the perceptions and roles of key officials in the U.S. government regarding U.S.–Japan security relations in the late 1960s. First, it examines the development of Richard M. Nixon’s view on Japan’s security role from the late 1940s to the late 1960s (particularly regarding Japan’s greater defense and regional responsibilities), as well as National Security Advisor Henry A. Kissinger’s view of Japan (including his limited knowledge of Jap anese decision making, and his consistent perception of Japan’s nuclear build up in the long term). Second, the chapter discusses the roles of key National Security Council (NSC) staff members, State Department officials, and Defense Department officials. Third, it examines the formulation of U.S. policy toward Japan based on a series of NSC interdepartmental studies.
