title: Japanese Students at Cambridge University in the Meiji Era, 1868-1912: Pioneers for the Modernization of Japan
author:  Noboru Koyama 
description: "...[T]his is of interest to historians and Cambridge graduates alike." -- <i>Kansai Time Out, June 2006</i>
zlib_text:   In 1858, renowned scholar Yukichi Fukuzawa opened a school for Dutch learning 
  in Edo (present-day Tokyo). Having traveled in Europe and the United States, 
  Fukuzawa established the foundation of modern education in Japan, free from the 
  traditional values and practices of society.
    In 1868, the school was expanded and renamed Keio Gijuku after the name of the 
  era at that time: “Keio.” The school began to offer university education in 1890, 
  and Keio took its place as Japan’s foremost comprehensive university. The universi-
  ty has expanded to include 10 faculties and 14 graduate schools, and in 2008 it 
  celebrated its 150th anniversary. Founder Yukichi Fukuzawa, a pioneer of modern 
  Japan, is pictured on the 10,000-yen note, the country’s highest denomination. 
  The institution he founded continues to provide leadership for the future.
    Founder Yukichi Fukuzawa believed in self-respect and independence of mind, in 
  thinking for oneself and taking responsibility for one’s actions. H