How would viable synthetic fuel discovered in 1920 change Japan's path to the Pacific War?
Short answerIt would reduce the oil embargo's leverage and ease fleet operations, while scrap-iron imports remained an important constraint.
NotesA viable synthetic-fuel industry established after 1920 would reduce the effect of American oil restrictions on Japan. The embargo on scrap iron would still matter because Japan imported large quantities from the United States for munitions production. An independent fuel supply could make it easier to seek scrap metal from other suppliers. It could also allow more active fleet operations by reducing concern over fuel reserves.