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12. Okinawa and the Mainland
Okinawa has helped mainland Japan in many ways.
After the late 18th century, foreign ships often visited Okinawa.
In those days, Japan was in national seclusion.
Other countries pressed Japan to open up.
As the southern gate to Japan, Okinawa (the Ryukyus) had to deal with these countries.
Do you play igo?
You may place a stone on purpose so that your opponent can take it.
It might help you win.
This is a suteishi.
During World War II, Okinawa was a "suteishi" for our country.
Many people were killed in Okinawa.
While the war was fought in Okinawa, the landing on the mainland by the U.S. military was delayed.
After the war, Okinawa was placed under the control of the U.S. army.
From Okinawa, American warplanes took off.
In this way the U.S. took part in wars in Korea and Vietnam.
At that time, the U.S. called Okinawa the military "Keystone of the Pacific."
In 1972 Okinawa was returned to Japan.
But even now, about 70% of the U.S. military bases in Japan are located in Okinawa.
In a way, it still is a suteishi.
Yet a desire to become a keystone for true peace is at the heart of Okinawa.