Facets of the U.S.–Japan Relationship:
Trade
The relationship today appears to be more durable than it ever has in the past. But as history has demonstrated, there always remains the possibility that the pendulum might swing again.
–Peter Duus
Working in groups, your class will research and learn about six different facets of modern U.S.–Japan relations and assess how they affect the overall relationship between the two countries.
Your group’s topic is trade between the United States and Japan.
Conduct research into your topic, focusing on the research questions provided below. Then prepare and deliver a 5-minute presentation to the rest of the class.
Assessment
Your research and presentation will be graded using the following criteria:
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clarity of presentation;
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thoroughness and relevance of research to the research questions;
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thoughtful analysis of the role your “facet” plays in the overall U.S.–Japan relationship; and
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even distribution of researching and presenting responsibilities among group members.
Next Up:
Research Questions
Use the questions below to guide your research and structure your presentation.
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What is the history of economic exchange between Japan and the United States? How did it come about?
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What is the current status of trade between the two countries?
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What is the volume of trade? Has it been increasing or decreasing, and why?
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What are some examples of business collaborations between American and Japanese companies? Have they been successful?
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What are the trade disputes between the two countries, and how are they being addressed?
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Professor Duus lists the following as key themes in the U.S.–Japan relationship: friendship and hostility, conflict and cooperation, admiration and criticism, interdependence and rivalry, war and peace. What themes are most relevant to your topic, and why?
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe with U.S. President Donald Trump in the White House, June 2018.
Source: Wikimedia Commons