What were the similarities and differences between Germany and Japan in the rise of the nation state?

Answer 1

Both Germany and Japan emerged as nation states in the late 19th century after a prolonged period of extreme decentralization. Germany was divided into minor kingdoms and principalities after the Holy Roman Empire (the effective predecessor to Germany) dissolved in the early 19th century. It was slowly reunified under the Kingdom of Prussia. In Japan, the traditionally ceremonial emperor consolidated his power over the feudal rulers of Japan in order to enact modernizing reforms. Both countries were also territorial expansionists.

The main difference between the two is that Japan was a modernizing country while Germany was already heavily industrialized. Japan was much more isolated than Germany as well, having never been invaded successfully while Germany had potential enemies on all sides.