Fukuzawa Yukichi

Hello! My name is Fukuzawa Yukichi, and I want to tell you my story. I was born in Japan on January 10th, 1835. My family were samurai, who were once great warriors. By the time I was born, however, our family didn't have much money and we were poor. Even so, I had a very big dream. More than anything, I wanted to learn as much as I could about the world.

When I was a young man, Japan was a very private country and did not have much contact with other places. This made me so curious! I decided I had to learn about the world, so I started studying the Dutch language. At the time, that was the only way to read books from Europe. It was very hard work, but I didn't give up. Soon, I was reading all about science and new ideas. Later, I learned English, too, which opened up even more of the world to me.

My new language skills led to amazing adventures! In 1860, I was chosen to sail on one of the first Japanese ships to visit America. It was an incredible journey. I saw so many new things, like telegraphs that sent messages through wires using electricity! A few years later, in 1862, I traveled all around Europe. Seeing how people in other countries lived and learning about their new inventions gave me a big idea. I knew I had to share what I had learned to help Japan become a stronger, more modern country.

When I returned home to Japan, I was excited to share my knowledge. In 1858, I started a small school for Dutch studies which I called Keio Gijuku. I taught my students about Western ideas, science, and why it was important to think for themselves. That little school grew and grew, and today it is a very famous school called Keio University! I also wrote many books to share my ideas. My most famous book, 'An Encouragement of Learning,' told people that everyone is born equal and has the right to learn, no matter if they are rich or poor.

I lived to be 66 years old and spent my life helping Japan open up to the world. People remember me as a great teacher who helped bring new ideas to my country. My school is still one of the best in Japan today. If you ever see a 10,000 yen bill, which is a type of money in Japan, you’ll see my face on it! It is there to remind everyone that learning is the most important adventure of all.