Title: Anti-American Sentiment in Okinawa: Historical Legacy and New Generation Perspectives
The closed-door meeting between Okinawa Prefecture Vice Governor Yoshimi Teruya and China's new ambassador to Japan, Wu Jianghao, has attracted widespread attention. Okinawa will soon set up a "Regional Diplomatic Office" with the intention of strengthening peaceful exchanges between the region and neighboring countries, and intends to pay an official visit to China. This move sparked a discussion about the historical ties between Okinawa and Japan, as well as the antipathy of Okinawans towards the United States.
Historically, Okinawa was an independent Ryukyu kingdom, but it was forcibly annexed by Japan during the reign of Emperor Meiji and became Okinawa Prefecture. In addition, Okinawa is responsible for more than 70% of the US military bases in Japan, including the famous "Futenma" base. These bases not only pose a pollution problem to local residents, but also frequently involve the US military in various cases, which has aroused resentment among the Okinawan people.
The roots of Okinawans' anti-American sentiment can be traced back to World War II, when the U.S. military fought fierce fighting in Okinawa for four months, inflicting heavy casualties on the local population. This is where the pain in the hearts of Okinawans comes from, and they always feel that they have fallen victim to the political game between the United States and Japan.
Anti-American sentiment in Okinawa stems not only from historical legacies, but also from real life. In recent years, despite repeated calls by Okinawa's political leaders for the relocation of US military bases, this demand has not been realized. Dissatisfaction with the government has further intensified anti-American sentiment among Okinawans.
However, anti-American sentiment in Okinawa is not unanimous among the whole people. The younger generation's anti-American attitude has gradually weakened, and some young people have even said that they have not participated in anti-garrison activities. This discrepancy indicates that there is a certain difference in attitudes within the Okinawan community regarding the presence of U.S. troops.
To sum up, anti-American sentiment in Okinawa has both historical roots and the influence of real life. Okinawa Prefecture Vice Governor Yoshimi Teruya's actions demonstrate the desire of Okinawans to establish an independent diplomatic system. However, the implementation of this plan may face resistance from the United States, Japan and other countries. Nevertheless, the will of the Okinawan people will be an important factor in the future development of Okinawa, and will also arouse global attention and support for national autonomy.