A point that tends to be overlooked in the debate over textbooks that whitewash Japan's actions during World War II is that Japanese junior high school history classes rarely make it past the Meiji Restoration. Whether or not "comfort women" or the Rape of Nanking is mentioned in textbooks becomes an academic issue if children don't learn anything about the Pacific War in the first place.
Japanese people are more likely to learn about the war from the media, especially this time of year when there are TV specials commemorating the anniversaries of the battle of Okinawa, the two atomic bombings, and the surrender itself. It's the end of the war that merits remembrance because the incredible losses that Japan suffered in the final months can be used to mask the incredible losses that Japan inflicted throughout Asia.
This being the 60th anniversary, there are even more specials scheduled, and the more dramatic ones exclusively address the sacrifice and suffering of the Japanese people -- without any mention of the nation's cruel empire-building escapades. However, one drama special, which was broadcast last Monday night on TV Tokyo, stands apart. In fact, considering how little publicity it received, maybe it stands too far apart.
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