Jōmon Archaeology and the 20th-Century Breakthrough That Redefined Japan’s Prehistory

Wartime Nationalism and Postwar Urban Development’s Role in Jōmon Discoveries

Today, we’ll explore the fascinating historical circumstances that led Japan’s Jōmon period—one of the most significant eras in Japanese prehistory—to become recognized as a globally celebrated archaeological achievement of the 20th century.

The term “Jōmon” (縄文) literally translates to “cord-marked,” referring directly to the distinctive patterns found …