How old was Emperor Meiji when he became emperor?

Emperor Meiji. He was only 15 years old when he ascended the Japanese throne in 1868. When he died in 1912, Japan had risen from a feudal country to a powerful Asian nation shaped after Western patterns. Although Emperor Meiji never executed real power, he became the figurehead of the new era named after him. read more

Emperor Meiji (明治天皇, Meiji-tennō, November 3, 1852 – July 30, 1912), or Meiji the Great (明治大帝, Meiji-taitei), was the 122nd Emperor of Japan according to the traditional order of succession, reigning from February 3, 1867 until his death on July 30, 1912. read more

As emperor he formally ordered, though he did not initiate, the abolition of the feudal land system (1871), the creation of a new school system (1872), adoption of the cabinet system of government (1885), promulgation of the Meiji Constitution (1889), and opening of the Diet (1890). read more

Emperor Komei died. Emperor Komei died at an early age. This left fourteen year old Meiji in a position of power. February 3, 1867: The crown prince took the throne. A short ceremony was held in Kyoto for Emperor Meiji. He continued his education which, however, did not include politics. read more