WWII Imperial Japanese Navy 1932 Special Naval Exercise Photo Album

  

This is an official commemorative photo album documenting the Imperial Japanese Army Special Grand Maneuvers of 1928, personally supervised by Emperor Hirohito (Showa Emperor). "His Majesty the Great Marshal's Supervision of the Army Special Grand Maneuvers - Commemorative Photo Album". Published by Iwate Nippo Newspaper, this rare historical record captures one of the most significant military exercises of pre-war Japan. In 1928, Japan was undergoing a major shift in its military and geopolitical strategy.

The previous year saw the assassination of Zhang Zuolin, escalating tensions between Japan and China over Manchuria. Domestically, this period marked the early years of Emperor Hirohito's reign, making this grand maneuver a crucial event to showcase imperial authority over the military. Imperial Supervision - The Emperor's direct presence was intended to reinforce his role as the supreme commander of the military, boosting morale and discipline.

Strategic Military Exercises - The Japanese Army was preparing for potential conflicts in Manchuria and Siberia, testing large-scale troop movements and battle strategies. Domestic and Political Influence - This grand maneuver served as a powerful demonstration of Japan's military might, both to the public and political elite. Photographs of Emperor Hirohito inspecting the troops on horseback. Japanese Army commanders and unit formations.

Detailed images of maneuver operations (infantry, cavalry, artillery movements). Geographical terrain and strategic battle formations. This original pre-war military album is an invaluable resource for collectors and historians interested in Imperial Japanese Army strategy, Showa-era military history, and Japan's early military expansion policies.

A rare and significant find from the early 20th century!