what was the significance of matthew perry opening up trade with japan? course hero

by Linnea Wiegand 9 min read

Commodore Matthew C. Perry was a noted American naval officer in the first half of the 19th century who earned fame for opening Japan to American trade. A veteran of the War of 1812, Perry endeavored to promote and develop steam technology in the U.S. Navy and earned the nickname "Father of the Steam Navy."

Full Answer

When did Perry sign the Treaty of Kanagawa?

Perry returned with a larger force in 1854, arriving in Edo (Tokyo) Bay, and obtained the signature of Japanese authorities to the Treaty of Kanagawa on 31 March 1854.

What was Japan like in the mid-nineteenth century?

In the mid-nineteenth century, Japan was largely a closed society, resistant to diplomatic and commercial contact with foreigners. Attempts by the United States and other nations to establish formal relations with Japan were repeatedly rebuffed.

Early Life and Career

War of 1812

Fast Facts: Commodore Matthew C. Perry

Rising Through The Ranks

Naval Pioneer

Mexican-American War

Opening Japan

  • With the end of the war in 1848, Perry moved through various shore assignments before being returned to Mississippiin 1852, with orders to prepare for a voyage to the Far East. Instructed to negotiate a treaty with Japan, then closed to foreigners, Perry was to seek an agreement which would open at least one Japanese port to trade and would secure ...
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Later Life