Question

what social and political changes did japan make in order to make up for a lack of natural resources.

Answer 1

With the end of the feudal Tokugawan era, Japan finally kicked themselves into gear with the Meiji Restoration - which made up for lack of resources (given that Japan is just a little island) by having rapid industrialization and modernization. They had new shipyards, iron smelts, and copied Western methods of mass-production. A new industry-based society was born.
Politically/Socially, the Shogunate ended, and Japan's social hierarchy became more like the West. More democratic and less feudal.
Does that make sense? It might be kind of confusing if you're not too familiar with some of their historical periods :)

Answer 2

thanks :)

Answer 3

What were some of the economic reforms that occurred during the Meiji Restoration?