13758. HISTORY AND EVOLUTION OF THE JAPANESE ECONOMY, 1868-1990. Traces the history and evolution of the Japanese economy from the Meiji Restoration and the first economic opening to the outside world. Profiles the Meiji Restoration's industrialization program and the birth and development of the zaibatsu (Japanese-style business conglomerates). Considers the changes that occurred in the Japanese economy between the First and Second World Wars and chronicles the U.S.-led transformation in the aftermath of WWII. Briefly summarizes the state of the Japanese economy in the current era of globalization. 9 pages, 16 footnotes, 5 bibliographic sources.