This Day In History

February 18th 660 BC: Emperor Jimmu becomes the first Emperor of Japan

On this day in 660 BC, the first Japanese emperor (Emperor Jimmu) began his reign. This is the date which is traditionally given, however it is hard to conclude a definite date. The 11th February 660 BC is considered the day of the foundation of Japan, and Jimmu became its first emperor on the 18th February. Jimmu is sometimes claimed to be mythical.