Why have some nations, including Japan, historically saved so much, while others, notably the U.S.--saved so little? Economists propose various explanations, yet they overlook the determined efforts of the Japanese state and various groups to encourage household saving from the late 19th century to the recent past. Sheldon Garon tells the little-known story of Japan's pervasive savings-promotion campaigns. He also explores the transnational aspects of savings promotion. Far from unique, Japanese efforts were inspired by European thrift-promotion programs, which included postal savings, school savings, and wartime savings campaigns. Savings campaign posters from Japan and other countries illustrate the lecture.