Discuss the reasons for, and the consequences of, the adoption of the reverse course in Japan to 1952.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for, and the consequences of, the adoption of the reverse course in Japan to 1952. They may adopt a chronological approach that discusses the events of the US occupation after the Second World War. Consequences may extend beyond the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Alternatively, candidates may choose a thematic approach and may refer to aspects such as the initial reforms under the US occupation, resistance to the economic changes, internal dissent, the US desire to create stability, and external Cold War pressures. These need not all be covered or covered equally. There may be some imbalance between reasons and consequences, but candidates will consider both aspects. A balanced review is likely to identify differing views of American actions. While other, relevant, factors may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question.