Premier Hiranuma -- The Premier of Japan at his official desk, composing a Japanese letter with a brush. His appointment early in January climaxes a notable official career spanning half a century. Born in 1866, in Okayama Prefecture; he is a graduate of the Law College of Tokyo Imperial University. Starting his career in the Minis-try of Justice as public procurator (prosecutor) in provincial courts, he rose to the directorship of the Board of Criminal Affairs, became Vice-Minister of Justice, was promoted to Procurator General, appointed Chief Justice; and finally Minister of Justice in the Yamamoto Cabinet in 1923. March 1, 1939. (Photo by Japan Photo Library).