What year was the original SOFA agreement between the U.S. and Japan signed?

The original Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) between the United States and Japan was signed in 1960. This agreement was significant as it defined the legal status of U.S. military forces stationed in Japan and established the framework for the military's presence and operations within Japanese territory. The signing of the 1960 SOFA came during a period of heightened geopolitical tension in East Asia, and it set the foundation for the ongoing military alliance between the two nations. Understanding this historical context helps clarify why the year 1960 is pivotal in the relationship between the U.S. and Japan regarding military presence and cooperation.