The Showa period, which lasted from 1926 to 1989, was marked by Japan's militarism and involvement in World War II.

The Mongol invasions of Japan in the 13th century were repelled by a combination of strategic planning and a typhoon that destroyed the invading fleet.

The instant noodle, invented by Momofuku Ando in 1958, has become a staple food item in many countries around the world.