Yamagata, Aritomo

1838 - Born in a low-class samurai family of Hagi; birth of the modern Japanese Army founder

1863 - commander of Kihei-tai

1868
- became prominent in his role in the Meiji Restoration

1869 - flew to Europe along with Saigo Tsugumichi to research about the military system of European Forces

1872
-became the pioneering minister of war after studying European military systems

1874-1876
- became the Chief of the General Staff

1877 - led the modernized Imperial Army against the Takamori-led rebellion

1878-1882
- created the first conscript army and the general staff wherein he became chief
- continued as Chief of the General Staff

1882-1889
- He eventually served as head of the army

1884-1885
- last term as Chief of the General Staff

1885-1891
- Home Minister for three cabinets
- in 1891, he was given the honor of Genro (official elder statesman)

1889-1893
- around these years, he served as premier and minister of justice

1894-1895
- directed the army during the Sino-Japanese War
- positions include Commanding General, First Army, First Sino-Japanese War

1898-1900
- 2nd term as Prime Minister and served as an Acting War Minister

1904-1905
- He was chief of staff during the Russo-Japanese War.

1906 - tasked by King Edward VII as the Order of Merit

1922- Died on February 1