Japanese occupation weakened european and american colonial establishments. what was going on at this time, before the outbreak of wwii?

Japan needed more land to feed its people, it turned to war for this. When they started attacking small nations no one was too worried. Then they went for bigger areas and the United States retaliated. It is said the U.S.A did nothing to stop Japan at the beginning, but they did. The United States embargoed Japan, this made even more complications in the Japanese empire. Japan later went on to attack Pearl Harbor and the Philippines as a result. Keep in mind, the only reason America embargoed japan was due to their aggressive expansion.

I hope I have been of assistance. Have a great day! :)

julius caesar turned the roman republic into the roman empire by coming in and taking the "dictator" role during the time of a civil war (elites vs lower classes) winning battles and reputation, then declaring him dictator for life

hope this : )

an era of negotiation.

is that an answer to your question?