桂太郎の最後の訪欧について

Katsura Tarō’s prime ministership, marked by the signing of the Anglo-Japanese Alliance, the victorious war against Russia, and the annexation of Korea, makes him one of the most prominent politicians of his era, second only to the unquestioned leader of the influential Chōshū clique, Yamagata Aritomo. When, after his second term, Katsura left for Europe in July 1912, many saw this voyage as an attempt to rest from his activities, and an opportunity to exchange views with European statesmen before his return to politics. This essay’s aim is to provide an insight into the circumstances surrounding the journey and Katsura’s nomination to the Court, and to discuss the reasons that sent him overseas, particularly his alleged plan to research the British party system, connected with ideas concerning the creation of his own party. On his return, Katsura, virtually without protest, agreed to abandon these ideas in order to assist the new emperor as a courtier, even though he realized this would hurt his political career. Clarification of all the factors involved in this nomination is the author’s second aim.