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Question

Which one of the following was the earlier name of Tokyo?

This question was previously asked in
CDS I 2016 English Previous Year Paper (14-Feb-2016)
The correct answer is

Edo

Understanding Tokyo's Historical Name

The question asks about the earlier name of the city that is now known as Tokyo. Cities often change their names over long periods due to historical events, political changes, or growth. To answer this, we need to recall the historical evolution of major Japanese cities.

Analyzing the Options for Tokyo's Former Name

Let's look at the options provided:

  • Osaka: Osaka is a major city in Japan, located in the Kansai region. It has its own distinct history and was never the name of Tokyo.
  • Kyoto: Kyoto was the imperial capital of Japan for over a thousand years before the capital moved. It is a separate city with a rich history, different from Tokyo.
  • Samurai: Samurai refers to the military nobility and officer caste of medieval and early-modern Japan. It is a class of people, not a city name.
  • Edo: Edo was a city in Japan that grew significantly during the Tokugawa shogunate. It is well-known in Japanese history as a major power center before the Meiji Restoration.

Identifying the Correct Earlier Name of Tokyo

Historically, the city that is now Tokyo was indeed known by a different name. During the Edo period (1603–1868), it served as the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the imperial capital was moved from Kyoto to Edo, and the city was renamed Tokyo, which means "Eastern Capital".

Therefore, the earlier name of Tokyo was Edo.

Detailed Explanation

Before 1868, Tokyo was known as Edo. The name was changed to Tokyo when Emperor Meiji moved the imperial court from Kyoto to Edo. The Edo period is a significant era in Japanese history, marked by the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate based in Edo castle (which later became the Imperial Palace). The city grew into a large and prosperous center during this time.

Comparing the options:

Option Relation to Tokyo Correctness
Osaka Separate major city in Japan. Incorrect
Kyoto Former imperial capital, separate city. Incorrect
Samurai A class of warriors, not a city. Incorrect
Edo Historical name for the city now known as Tokyo. Correct

Based on historical facts, Edo is the correct earlier name of Tokyo.

Revision Table: Key Historical Names

Current Name Earlier Name(s) Significance of Earlier Name Period
Tokyo Edo Seat of Tokugawa Shogunate (Edo Period, 1603-1868)
Kyoto Heian-kyō Imperial Capital (Heian Period onwards)

Additional Information on Tokyo's History

The history of Tokyo, formerly Edo, is fascinating. Founded as a small fishing village, it became politically important in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu made it his shogunate headquarters. The city experienced rapid growth and developed a unique culture. The name change to Tokyo ("Eastern Capital") in 1868 symbolized Japan's move towards modernization and a new era with the Emperor restored to central power. Tokyo is now the capital of Japan and one of the world's largest metropolitan areas, a stark contrast to its origins, but its history as Edo remains a crucial part of its identity.

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