Following years of unrest and conflict, Mutsuhito declared the beginning of the Meiji era in 1868 after successfully restoring imperial rule in Japan. This occurred after the decline of the Tokugawa shogunate, which had dominated Japan for over 250 years. The capital was moved from Edo, the shogunal capital, to Tokyo, which translates to 'Eastern Capital'. This geographic shift symbolized not only a change in leadership but also an embrace of national unity and modernity, emphasizing the emperor's role in a changing political landscape.

The proclamation came during a time when Japan was in turmoil due to the conflicts arising from the Boshin War, which pitted imperial forces against loyalists of the shogunate. This war led to significant political change and ultimately facilitated the Meiji Restoration. With the establishment of the new era, the emperor sought to modernize Japan by adopting Western political, military, and industrial practices, which would propel Japan onto the world stage as a formidable power.

The Meiji era marked a period of rapid transformation, as constitutional government was introduced, and the social structure of Japan began to change. The government initiated massive reforms, including the abolition of the feudal system, establishment of a conscript army, and the promotion of education and technological advancement. Mutsuhito’s actions were instrumental in fostering national pride and unity, as well as laying the groundwork for Japan’s emergence as a modern state.