Japanese painting of Perry’s Ships…scary! U.S. Imperialism ~ Japan In July 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry sailed into Tokyo Bay with a squadron of four U.S. ships. Japanese officials refused to speak with Perry, but eventually they accepted letters from the U.S. President Millard Fillmore, making the United States the first Western nation to establish relations with Japan since it was declared closed to foreigners in 1683. For 250 years, Japan isolated themselves, blocking outside trade, and barring foreigners from entering and leaving the country. American ships had sailed around the world, trading with European and Asian nations. However, America did not trade with Japan; or more accurately, Japan did not trade with America, or with most other countries. The U.S. Navy was particularly interested in buying coal from Japan, and establishing a friendly port in the Pacific Ocean. Japanese painting of Perry’s Ships…scary! By the time Perry and his four ships arrived in Edo Bay, the Japanese were well aware of the size of the American force. The squadron sailed into the bay, and the ships fired blanks from dozens of cannons. Perry later claimed was in celebration of U.S. Independence Day (July 4).  Japanese guard boats surrounded the American ships. One Japanese ship displayed a large sign, written in French, that urged the “invaders” to leave right away. They eventually went ashore and displayed their military might; the combination of the onshore military demonstrations, the firing of the cannons, and the potential firepower aboard their ships convinced the Japanese government that they would not be able to win a naval battle. In 1854 the Treaty of Kanagawa officially opened Japan to trade with the U.S. The American government wanted to extend its influence politically and economically, hoping that trade routes between America and Japan could be established. The goal was a treaty to be signed by representatives of both countries, and the U.S. government was prepared to use “gunboat diplomacy” if the need arose. One primary point of discussion was the treatment of shipwrecked soldiers; Americans had been treated badly in Japan. A Japanese postage stamp commemorating Commander Perry, and the U.S. arrival in Japan.

What Do You See? What type of ships are in the After the U.S. arrival, Japan began to Westernize their government, military, and school systems. Industrialization is one of the greatest influences that western countries had on Japan. Within just a few decades, Japan's economy and transportation systems were in the same condition as those of successful western countries. Because of Japan's willingness to modernize, they were able to begin competing with other nations, eventually becoming one of the most powerful countries in the world. What Do You See? What type of ships are in the background? What is in the foreground? What are the people doing? Historical Context: What is the theme or idea represented by the illustration? When? Where? Based on the illustration, what was the artist’s perspective on the topic? Does it seem to be a positive or negative portrayal? Provide evidence for your thinking. Movie Clip Questions: Why did Commodore Perry believe it was necessary to secure ports in the Pacific? Commodore Perry’s use of served as a wake-up call to Japan to strengthen their Navy and modernize their nation.