House of Peers (Japan)

The House of Peers (貴族院, Kizokuin) was the upper house of the Imperial Diet of Japan from 1890 until 1947. It was established under the Meiji Constitution and was designed to balance the power of the popularly elected House of Representatives. The House of Peers consisted of members from the Imperial Family, nobility (kazoku), and those appointed by the Emperor for distinguished service or knowledge.

The composition of the House of Peers changed over time through several reforms, including those in 1925. Early on, its membership was heavily weighted towards the aristocracy. Gradually, seats were allocated to high taxpayers, individuals of notable achievement in fields such as science, literature, and business, as well as those nominated by the Emperor for service to the state.

While the House of Representatives could initiate legislation, the House of Peers had the power to amend or veto bills. The consent of both houses was required for a bill to become law. The House of Peers played a significant role in shaping legislation and policy during the Meiji, Taisho, and early Showa periods.

Following World War II, the Meiji Constitution was replaced by the current Constitution of Japan. The House of Peers was abolished in 1947, and replaced by the House of Councillors, a popularly elected upper house, as part of the broader democratization of Japan. The archives of the House of Peers provide valuable historical insight into the political and social landscape of pre-war Japan.