Emperor Kōkaku

Reign: 1779 – 1817
Life: 1771–1840

The next emperor to abdicate was Akihito, 202 years later. Major events in Kōkaku's life included an ongoing famine that affected Japan early into his rule. The response he gave during the time was welcomed by the people, and helped to undermine the shōgun's authority. The Kansei Reforms came afterwards as a way for the shōgun to cure a range of perceived problems which had developed in the mid-18th century but was met with partial success.

During Emperor Kōkaku's reign, George III of Great Britain ruled Great Britain, Frederick William III of Prussia ruled Prussia, and Selim III ruled Ottoman Empire.

Want to learn more? Further reading

A History of Japan: From Stone Age to Superpower by Mikiso Hane & Louis Perez

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The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

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From the library

Go deeper on Emperor Kōkaku

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