Polemics on the incompatibility of Christianity with patriotism in Japan at the end of the 19th century

The article aims at analyzing the course of anti-Christian polemics end 19th century, and its influence upon Christian community in Japan. century turned to be quite difficult for Japanese Christians. Promulgation conservative Meiji Constitution 1889 Imperial Edict on Education 1890 marked liberal reforms shift nationalistic militarist policy This period was characterized by bashing, when Christians were accused lack patriotism loyalty Emperor government, espionage, attempts overturn traditional ways. These accusations put a predicament made them prove their innocence, point view tenets religion eyes authorities, which eventually lead furious argument between two sides — nonChristian communities, latter being presented mainly Buddhist intelligentsia, Inoue Enryo Tetsujiro most famous. conflict resulted extremely painful consequences Christians, who had conform support expansionist authorities thereof.