Liberalism in Japan

Japanese liberalism 自由主義 or リベラリズム formed in a nineteenth century as the reaction against traditional society. In the twentieth century 'liberal' 自由 gradually became a synonym for conservative, together with today the leading conservative party in the country is named Liberal Democratic Party Jiyu Minshuto. The defunct Democratic Party Minshuto was considered in part a centrist-liberal party, as are near parties which derived from it. The liberal reference of the Liberal League Jiyu Rengo is disputed, as this is the also considered to be conservative by some. Liberals in Japan are broadly considered united by one major factor: their opposition to changing the post-World War II constitution forbidding the introducing of a national military. This article is limited to liberal リベラル parties with substantial support, proved by having had relation in parliament. The⇒ means a character to another party in that scheme. For inclusion in this scheme it isn't necessary that parties labelled themselves "liberal".