Colton, Kenneth, November 23, 1979

Kenneth E. Colton (1913-1995), born in Des Moines, Iowa, was a Professor of modern Japanese politics, whose interest in Japan began during his service for General Headquarters, Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers (GHQ/SCAP) during the Occupation of Japan (1945-1952). In January 1946, he began work in G-2, Research and Analysis Section of the Civil Intelligence Section (CIS), researching Japanese political parties. He later joined the Civil Historical Section. His tenure with GHQ/SCAP ended in 1952 when the Occupation came to a close, but his interest in Japanese politics continued. He taught at Sophia University, the International Christian University (ICU), American University and Kent State University. The Kenneth E. Colton papers are comprised primarily of materials related to his work in Japan during the Occupation on Japanese political parties and figures, the Diet and elections.