Commodore Perry Opens Japan
In the mid-1800s, the United States wanted to open Japan’s ports to American trade and strengthen its influence in the Pacific. Japan was ruled by shoguns, who limited contact with foreign countries. After an earlier attempt at diplomacy failed, the U.S. sent Commodore Matthew C. Perry to negotiate.
In 1853, Perry sailed into Tokyo Bay with four steam-powered warships and demanded that Japan open ports to American trade and help sailors in distress. He returned the following year with an even larger fleet, and Japan agreed to a treaty. The agreement increased foreign influence in Japan and weakened the shogun’s power. In 1868, the emperor regained political control, ending centuries of shogun rule.
Lesson Express
Q: Why did the Americans come to the conclusion that a large show of power was required for diplomacy?
A: When they tried to be diplomatic, the Japanese turned them away.
Q: How did Commodore Perry show strength?
A: He brought huge ships and came ashore with the largest men from his fleet. Perry refused to leave when he was rebuffed and implied that they may bombard Japan.
Q: What were the impacts of Perry’s negotiation for the U.S.? What were the impacts for Japan?
A: He got what he wanted, but he also shifted the balance of power in Japan towards the Imperial Court.
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