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Sakoku Edict
Japan begins its isolationist policy against trade and outside influences -
Matthew Perry arrives in Japan
British commodore outguns Japanese forces and demands Japan open to trading. The Convention of Kanagawa is signed to enable trade in 1854. -
Period: to
Bakumatsu
Feudal system breaking down, Japan ends its Sakoku policies and shifts to the Meiji government. Japanese leaders begin planning to become imperial power similar to European model. -
Emperor Kōmei Issues Order against Foreigners
After years of forced trade, Emperor mandates that foreigners expelled from Japan. -
The Satsuma Rebellion
Armed samurai (now disenfranchised from the traditional feudal system) fought against the new Meiji government, but the new government wins using Western technology against traditional samurai weapons.