“Taisho democracy (1912–1926) was fragile.” Discuss.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that Taisho democracy (1912–1926) was fragile. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement. Candidates may refer to events after 1926 as evidence that democracy was not effectively established during the Taisho era or to argue it was only events after this period that undermined democracy however, the bulk of the essay should be focused on the period 1912 to 1926. To support the statement that Taisho democracy was fragile candidates may refer to methods used by Prime Minister Hara to ensure a majority for his party, the Peace Preservation Law, the failure to enfranchise women, the assassination of Hara in 1921 and the failed assassination of Hirohito in 1923. To challenge the statement candidates may refer to the granting of universal male suffrage in 1925 and the appointment of the commoner Takashi as Prime Minister.