Japan invaded Manchuria in 1931 because
Manchuria had refused to make peace with Japan.
Japan wanted to take back lands that belonged to it.
Japan wanted raw materials and natural resources.
Manchuria had invaded Japan during World War I.

Japan invaded Manchuria in 1931 primarily driven by the desire for raw materials and natural resources. Facing economic difficulties during the Great Depression, Japan sought to secure resources like coal, iron, and agricultural products, which were essential for its industrial growth and military expansion.

Additionally, this invasion was influenced by Japan’s imperial ambitions following its victory in the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905). The war had made Japan more confident in its military prowess, and it sought to expand its empire further into Asia, viewing Manchuria as a perfect target for colonization and resource extraction. This bold move set the stage for further military aggression in the region, ultimately leading to larger conflicts in the years to come.