Japan

While retaining its time-honored culture, Japan rapidly absorbed Western technology during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. After World War II, Japan recovered to become the second most powerful economy in the world and an ally of the U.S.

Climate: varies from tropical in south to cool temperate in north

Natural resources: mineral resources, fish

Population: 126,771,662

Language: Japanese

Capital: Tokoyo

Independence: 660 BC (traditional founding by Emperor Jimmu)

National holiday: Birthday of Emperor Akihito, December 23 (1933)