The Tyrant Billionaire

Hardy's skill in giving compliments far surpassed his political abilities.

Johnson gave a light smile; he appreciated Hardy's comment. Only someone in his position could understand how challenging it was to ensure every policy was flawless and how demanding it was to be a successful president.

Hardy began explaining Japan's situation in detail.

In terms of heavy industry reform, the plan aimed to strip Japan of its heavy industry capabilities, thereby hindering any potential for military industrial development.

For light industry reform, the focus was on controlling industrial sectors and transforming Japan into a production base for the United States, thereby making Japan economically dependent on America.

Regarding financial reforms, Japan's economy had previously been dominated by major zaibatsu (conglomerates). Before World War II, Mitsui, Mitsubishi, Sumitomo, and Yasuda controlled much of Japan's economy, and these were the very conglomerates that had supported the war effort. Discover more stories at My Virtual Library Empire

At the heart of every zaibatsu lay a bank. Banks provided financial support, offered settlement platforms, and controlled shareholding across various enterprises, serving as the nerve center of the zaibatsu. Now, Hardy had acquired these banks, effectively severing that nerve.

Next came cultural reform.

"Since ABC Television's debut, it's caused a sensation in Japanese society. Japanese society was relatively closed off, and people had little chance to see the outside world. Through television, they saw the world beyond their shores and witnessed America's strength. The psychological impact on Japanese society has been significant.

I had people conduct discreet surveys, and now many Japanese harbor less resentment toward America; instead, admiration is growing."

"By exporting cultural entertainment, we can subtly reshape their worldview. I believe that in a few years, the conservative mindset of the Japanese government will weaken, and the so-called Bushido spirit and Shinto beliefs will diminish considerably."

"We're also pushing our social values through television, radio, and newspapers. Japan's social hierarchy is very rigid, and it's hard for those at the bottom to find opportunities. When liberalism takes root among the lower classes, they might even start to pursue the American Dream."

"Additionally, I had Global Times set up a dedicated column, recruiting university professors and intellectuals who studied in America or the West and are willing to champion our ideology. These writers criticize Japan's old feudal ideals, the Bushido spirit, Shinto worship, and even Japanese culture. They hold some level of social credibility and influence."

Hardy had effectively deployed the same tactics that intellectual elites would later popularize.

Despicable, perhaps, but highly effective.

Even in the 21st century, these strategies continued to work.

"I also plan to strongly promote the liberation of Japanese women. This will not only unleash productive forces but also disrupt traditional family dynamics. Families are the fundamental units of society; if the family structure becomes unstable, so too will society."

"Alongside women's liberation and the strong women's movement, we can also promote a culture that challenges male dominance. Regardless of the era, men have often been seen as pillars of society. If the men in a society become weak, that society's drive may diminish significantly."

"Bushido instills a fearless warrior mentality. That sort of ideology is a liability. We could promote a 'soft masculinity' culture instead, encouraging men to grow long hair, wear makeup, and adopt an androgynous look. By creating a trend of softer male celebrities, we can gradually erode their masculinity.

If this becomes a social movement, Japanese men's spirit will wither, and society will become more passive."

Johnson thought to himself that Hardy's schemes were indeed endless, but he approved of Hardy's approach wholeheartedly.

That MacArthur would never have imagined such tactics. He only knew how to suppress people forcefully, but he didn't understand the value of reshaping them from within.

Suppression always breeds resistance.

But transformation could influence for a century.

"I agree with your approach, Hardy," President Johnson said approvingly.

With that, Hardy relaxed. They took a sip of their drinks, and both lit cigars. Then, almost casually, Hardy remarked, "I heard that Lieutenant General Jensen at the Logistics Bureau recently suffered a stroke and is in critical condition?"

"Yes, it was sudden. Jensen likely won't be able to return to his post. I'm currently considering his replacement. How did you know about this?" Johnson asked, surprised.

For a logistics bureau chief, Johnson found it odd that Hardy would take an interest.

"I spent a few months in Japan, so I'm catching up with friends now that I'm back. Yesterday, I called Major General Williams, and in our conversation, he mentioned General Jensen's condition, which he found quite regrettable."

"You probably remember Williams. He's now a deputy director at the Logistics Bureau. When you first contacted me, it was Williams who helped facilitate things. Without him, we might never have had the chance to become friends," Hardy replied with a smile.

Johnson remembered that it was through Williams that he had first heard of Hardy and later sought Hardy's help to turn a bleak situation around.

In many ways, Williams had played a crucial role in Johnson's re-election.

Johnson smiled, "Williams should have a solid grasp of the Logistics Bureau's situation."

"He's been with the Logistics Bureau for almost 30 years, and he knows the operations inside out. During World War II, he managed logistics impressively, even earning a medal for it. He once showed me that medal, and he cherishes it deeply. I believe you personally pinned it on him."

Johnson nodded, smiling.

"Yes, now that you mention it, I remember. After the war, we awarded medals to a group of people with significant contributions. At the time, Williams was still a brigadier general, and I personally awarded medals to all the generals and above."

Johnson and Hardy talked in the office for over two hours before Johnson remarked, "It's time for my exercise. The doctor says my cardiovascular health isn't great and recommends I walk more. Hardy, why don't you join me for a stroll?"

"Of course," Hardy agreed readily.

The two walked to the White House's South Lawn, which serves as the garden behind the residence. It spans about 100 acres—not vast, but widely recognized as a location where American presidents often meet foreign dignitaries and hold press conferences.