The narratives of the end of the Cold War naturally start with the question of “what was the Cold War for Japan,” which, in turn, raises the question “what was WWII for Japan,” because in Northeast Asia, it was precisely Japan which became the major actor in waging this war. Thus, this analysis starts with the “trauma of defeat in WWII as the Pacific War,” then shifts to the “meaning of the Cold War (1945-1990),” followed by “what does the end of that era mean today,” and finally “the implications of the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII in 2020.” Japan’s relationship with the United States should be kept foremost in mind, given the importance of shared memories for an alliance of former adversaries steeped in common values. Coverage here extends also to Russia and China.

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