Quote:
Originally Posted by TSGracchus
I agree with Norrin. [Looks up, worried that the sky may be falling . . .] 
The principle of civilian control of the military is solidly entrenched in every government except a military dictatorship. Even in nondemocratic governments such as Nazi Germany or the Soviet Union, the civilian government had the last word on military action. |
In Nazi Germany, Hitler made all military decisions and acted as general. His 'civilian' title as furher and his military title as furher were one in the same.
In Japan, the military hijacked control of the government against the will of a weak and scared emperor. While technically he had the last 'say', evidence shows he was not in practical control of policy.
In any case, Hitler was neither elected as furher and the military government of Japan nor the emperor were elected by their people.
Each used force to acquire their legitimacy. Placing blame on civilians for this unfortunate situation is as self righteous as it gets.