The feudal families, specially Daimyos and Sumurai, who had been adversely affected by the abolition of feudalism, also played a significant role in the economic development and growth of capitalism in Japan. The members of these two classes were highly intelli­gent and resourceful.

After being relieved of their feudal responsibilities, they devoted themselves to business, trade and industries and ultimately set up factory industries in Japan. In course of time most of the industries came under the control of a handful of families like Mitsui, Mitsubishi, Sumitomo and Yasuda.

Thus we find that the growth of capitalism in Japan was in complete contrast with the growth of capitalism in Europe. In Europe capitalism grew after the overthrow of feudalism. On the other hand, in Japan capitalism was superimposed over the feudal structure.

Though in Japan feudalism was abolished, but in practice it continued. In another respect also the Japanese capitalism differed from the European capitalism. Whereas the European capitalism gave rise to strong individu­alism, in Japan the traditional principles of obedience and loyalty contin­ued to dominate even after the emergence of capitalism. This had its impact on the trade unions movement in Japan which could not develop along militant lines in Europe