Background Information

Describes the actions of Toshio Shiratori as a career serviceman in the Foreign Office including his work regarding the Manchurian Incident, the Tripartite Pact, and negotiations with Germany and Russia.

Describes General Seishiro Itagaki's actions while in the Kwantung Army and as War Minister. Also discusses his actions during the Manchurian Incident.

Describes Vice-Admiral Takazumi Oka's actions as Chief of the Navy Affairs Bureau and role in liaison conferences regarding the war program. Reveals that he had prior knowledge to the attack on Pearl Harbor in the middle of November, 1941.

Gives details about Admiral Osami Nagano's long career in the navy and his actions as Navy Minister. Includes specifics about going to war with Great Britain and the United States, including the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Describes General Kenryo Sato's actions as Chief of the Military Affairs Bureau, including his decisions on the Manchurian Affairs Board and the Committee of the Great East Asia Department. Handled prisoners of war administration and atrocities of war. Document states "was the key figure in the War Ministry other than Tojo himself."