Japan underwent a period of isolation in the 1600s before opening up to foreign trade in 1854 which sparked rapid modernization and industrialization, allowing Japan to become a regional power by defeating China and Russia. Mexico achieved independence in the 1800s and struggled with economic issues like debt crises and recessions over the 1900s. Italy unified in 1861 and was ruled by Mussolini's fascist dictatorship until its defeat in World War 2, after which it became a republic with ongoing economic challenges. Ethiopia maintained independence from colonial rule until an Italian occupation from 1936-1941 and experienced regime changes and civil unrest throughout the 1900s.