Discuss the reasons for the initial Japanese victories in South-East Asia (1940–1942).

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for the initial Japanese victories in South-East Asia (1940–1942). Candidates may discuss the nature and scale of the Japanese military. Its size, high levels of discipline, modern technologies and experience gained in the war with China put Japan in a strong position. Japan’s military plans, the “Southern Plan” and the “Eastern Plan” show that the Japanese military had clear strategic objectives. Japan also benefited from its alliance with Germany. The Tripartite Pact essentially handed control of French and Dutch colonies in South-East Asia to Japan. Candidates may argue that local populations initially saw the Japanese as a means of gaining independence and Japan’s slogan “Asia for the Asians” made many believe that Japanese rule would be preferential to European. Candidates may also discuss the weaknesses of the Allied powers in the region and the fact that they were preoccupied with events in Europe. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.