The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Signatories · Axis & other
Hideki Tojo (1884–1948): Signature, Documents and Historical Profile
| Born | 30 December 1884, Tokyo |
|---|---|
| Died | 23 December 1948, Tokyo (executed) |
| Key offices | Minister of War (1940); Prime Minister (October 1941 – July 1944) |
| Documents bearing his name | Government and army documents, seals and signatures, personal calligraphy |
| In the collection | No pieces currently available |
Hideki Tojo led Japan’s government from October 1941, through the attack on Pearl Harbor, until July 1944. He was tried by the International Military Tribunal for the Far East and hanged in 1948.
Who Was Hideki Tojo?
Tojo was born in Tokyo in 1884. He became Minister of War in 1940 and Prime Minister in October 1941, leading Japan through most of the Pacific War until he left office in July 1944 after the loss of the Mariana Islands. He survived a suicide attempt in September 1945.
What Documents Bear Tojo’s Signature?
His name appears on government and army documents, often with seals, and on personal calligraphy. Japanese documents require specialist reading. See original signature or facsimile.
What Should Collectors Watch For?
- Understand the role of seals in Japanese documents.
- Calligraphy attributed to Tojo needs expert examination.
- Check offices against the date.
Trial and Execution
The International Military Tribunal for the Far East found Tojo guilty, and he was hanged in Tokyo on 23 December 1948.
Collector’s Note
Japanese wartime documents are a specialist field. I work with experts in Japanese script and seals before reaching any conclusion.
Related Entries and Pieces
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was Tojo Prime Minister?
From October 1941 to July 1944.
What happened to Tojo?
He was tried in Tokyo and hanged on 23 December 1948.
Did Tojo sign with seals?
Japanese documents commonly carry seals as well as names.
Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology.
References & Further Reading
- Encyclopaedia Britannica, Tōjō Hideki.