Japan’s Emperor Addresses Nation
Emperor Akihito of Japan spoke publicly about the possibility of his retirement for the first time in a televised address on Monday.
By NTV, via ASSOCIATED PRESS on Publish Date August 8, 2016. Photo by Toru Yamanaka/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images.Article: ‘Emperor Akihito of Japan Raises Possibility of Leaving Throne’
Before Reading
What role, if any, should monarchies play in modern nations? Can they still serve an important role, or are they outdated institutions?
During Reading
1. Who is Emperor Akihito? Why does he want to retire? (Watch the video above to see the emperor’s televised address about the subject.)
2. Why is there a question about whether he will be able to do that?
3. Why isn’t the Japanese emperor allowed to meddle in politics?
4. What role did his father, Hirohito, play in World War II? How did he stun his subjects after the war?
After Reading
Do you think Emperor Akihito should be allowed to retire? Do you think the Imperial Household Law should be changed to allow women to inherit the throne?