What effect did Commodore Matthew C. Perry have on Japan?
Commodore Perry used the American fleet to force Japan to trade with the west and ended the feudal Shogun Era of Japan.
Under the rule of the Shogun’s trade with the west was restricted to one port in southern Japan. Western goods, technology and ideas were restricted.
The isolation of Japan allowed the Shogunate to maintain a feudal system of society late into the 1800’s.
When Commodore Perry forced Japan to trade with the west the power of the Shogunate was broken. The Samurai became obsolete and lost their power and prestige. The Emperor became the most powerful figure in Japanese society and government replacing the Shogun.
After Commodore Perry forced Japan to trade with the west Japan started to become a modern country in technology and industry.
