The Occupation of Japan by the victorious powers after World War II lasted from 1945 to 1952. Although called an Allied Occupation, it was an American operation in most respects. Japan, unlike Germany, was never divided into separate zones by the superpowers. The Occupation’s original policies were to demilitarize and to democratize Japan. In the context of rising tension between the US and the USSR after 1948, the Occupation was soon paying more attention to conservative policies. The intention was to stimulate economic growth hoping to draw popular support away from left-wing politics. This course succeeded in reducing political conflict and preparing Japan for the end of the Occupation in 1952. It also turned Japan into an important ally of the US.
