Episode 17 - He Who Saves One Life, Saves an Entire World

In this episode of the History of Japan podcast, the speaker corrects a previous error regarding the date of the Pearl Harbor attack before diving into the story of Sugihara Chiune, a Japanese government official during World War II. Born in 1900, Sugihara's early life and education are detailed, including his language skills and controversial association with a Christian fraternity. His career in the Foreign Ministry led him to Manchuria and later Lithuania, where he served as Consul General. As Europe descended into chaos, Sugihara defied his government's orders and issued visas to Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi persecution, saving thousands of lives. Despite his heroic actions, he faced repercussions, including being fired from his position and living in poverty. Later in life, he received recognition for his bravery, including being named Righteous Among the Nations by Yad Vashem. The speaker reflects on Sugihara's story as a reminder of the capacity for good within individuals, even within a government engaged in war, and mourns the loss of potential in those who died during the conflict. The episode concludes with a preview of the next topic: the American occupation of Japan.