The Genesis of Manga: Kitazawa Rakuten’s Pioneering Vision Kitazawa Rakuten (1876-1955), a name synonymous with the birth of modern manga, stands as an undeniable figure in Japanese artistic history. Born in Tokyo amidst the burgeoning industrialization and cultural dynamism of the late Meiji era, Rakuten’s journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim exemplifies unwavering dedication to his craft and a profound understanding of visual storytelling—a skillset that would irrevocably reshape Japan's artistic landscape. He wasn’t merely an artist; he was arguably the first profession…