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The Influence Of The American Soldiers During World War II

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Who would have ever thought a small amount of rice with raw fish on top of it would become so popular across the world? Sushi’s fame jumped an ocean across and became popular in the USA. Many factors contributed to its popularization and has helped make its place in the American cuisine. As time passed by, the simple creations of sushi evolved to complicated combinations and eye catching presentations today. This change was welcomed because it gave a new perspective of the dish, giving it a new face.

One of the factors that made sushi popular was the influence of the American soldiers. After World War II (WWII), American soldiers who were led by General Douglas MacArthur occupied Japan. During the war, sushi shops were forced to close due to rationing. There were not enough rice to reopen the shops after the war. The American forces created a program where people would be the ones to bring their own rice to the shop if they wanted sushi. The sushi chef would then use the rice brought by the customers to make sushi for them. This allowed for the shops to reopen and function. This popularized sushi outside of Tokyo (sushi was mainly sold in the city). One can say, sushi was saved by the American forces. If the American forces had not stepped in and created the program to help revive the sushi shops, no doubt would there be sushi shops open today. Sushi would not have had the chance to spread outside of Tokyo.

Another factor is The Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. This was a

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