Modernization in Japan

Modernization in Japan-P1

Learning Intention
Analyze how Japan transitioned from isolation to modernization during the Meiji era
Success Criteria
I can explain why Japan ended its isolation.

I can analyze at least three major reforms during the Meiji Restoration.

I can analyze how Japan selectively adopted Western practices.

By Ghinwa Fawwaz

Word Cloud

SETTING THE STAGE In the early 17th century, Japan had shut itself off from almost all contact with other nations. Under the rule of the Tokugawa shoguns, Japanese society was very tightly ordered. The shogun parceled out land to the daimyo, or lords. The peasants worked for and lived under the protection of their daimyo and his small army of samurai, or warriors. This rigid feudal system managed to keep the country free of civil war. Peace and relative prosperity reigned in Japan for two centuries.

What do you know about the samurai?

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In 1853, U.S. Commodore

sailed into Tokyo Harbor with four steam-powered ships, shocking the Japanese and pressuring them to open their ports to trade.

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The resulting agreement, the

of 1854, allowed U.S. ships to take on supplies at two Japanese ports. By 1860, Japan had granted extraterritorial rights to many foreign nations, similar to what had happened in China.

Multiple Choice

Why did the Japanese leaders realize the danger they and their culture were in after Perry's arrival?

• They had seen China being humiliated by Westerners

• They wanted to engage in trade with the United States

• They felt threatened by Russia's naval squad

• Perry threatened to conquer Japan

Multiple Choice

What role did the Japanese emperor play in the newly established constitutional monarchy?

• Ruled directly without any subordinate leader

• Ruled through a subordinate political leader

• Had no role in the government

• Acted as a figurehead without real power

Multiple Choice

Which event in 1853 led to Japan's opening up to the rest of the world?

• Arrival of Dutch traders

• Meiji Restoration

• Arrival of Commodore Matthew Perry

• Overthrow of the shogun