Japan is a unique case when it comes to the concept of independence, as it was never colonized in the same way many countries were. However, a significant event in its history that is often associated with independence and sovereignty is the end of World War II.
After Japan’s defeat in 1945, the country was occupied by Allied forces, led by the United States. During this occupation, Japan underwent substantial political, social, and economic reforms. The occupation officially ended on April 28, 1952, with the signing of the Treaty of San Francisco, which restored Japan’s sovereignty and declared its independence.
This treaty was monumental in allowing Japan to regain control over its territory and reintegrate into the international community. Hence, while Japan was never colonized, it effectively regained its independence and full sovereignty in 1952, marking a new chapter in its history as a nation.