Exploring Commodore Perry's Impact on Japan

The video explores the American experience through the lens of international perceptions, focusing on Commodore Matthew Perry's expedition to Japan in the 1850s. It highlights the Japanese reaction to Perry's arrival, which marked the end of Japan's isolationist policy and initiated trade relations. The video also examines Japanese documentation of American ships and culture, showcasing portraits that reflect the cultural exchange and its impact. The discussion concludes with reflections on the significance of historical objects in understanding history.

What question does the narrator suggest we ask to learn about the American experience?

• How did America become a global power?

• What do people outside of the United States think about Americans?

• How did Americans influence other cultures?

• What is the history of American culture?

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Who is Wendy Wick Reaves?

• A historian specializing in American history

• A senior curator for prints and drawings at the National Portrait Gallery

• A professor of American studies

• An expert in Japanese culture

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What was the Japanese reaction to Matthew Perry's arrival?

• They were shocked due to their long isolationist policy

• They were well-prepared and expecting him

• They immediately engaged in trade negotiations

• They ignored his presence

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What combination of tactics did Matthew Perry use to approach the Japanese?

• Diplomatic negotiations and peaceful discussions

• Threats, bluster, gifts, parades, spectacle banners, and military bands

• Threats and military force

• Gifts and parades only

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What was the result of Matthew Perry's second visit to Japan?

• He established a permanent American settlement in Japan

• He signed the first treaty to open Japan for trade

• He engaged in a battle with the Japanese

• He was turned away by the Japanese

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What did the Japanese document about the American ships?

• The exact route taken by the ships

• Only the size and shape of the ships

• The musical instruments, uniforms, and weapons

• The names of the American crew members

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What was one of the Japanese illustrations that stood out to the narrator?

• A depiction of American food items

• A portrait of the American president

• A double-hulled image of the ship with belching smoke

• A detailed map of the American route

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How did the Japanese depict Commodore Perry in their illustrations?

• As a fierce warrior

• With great dignity and a barrel-chested appearance

• As a humble and small figure

• In traditional Japanese attire

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What is the significance of the Japanese book discussed in the video?

• It contains American recipes

• It is a guide to American military strategies

• It is a collection of Japanese poetry

• It provides a rich context and story about the cultural exchange

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What impact did the exchange between Perry and the Japanese have?

• It resulted in the isolation of America

• It had no lasting impact

• It changed commerce on the American side and had a significant impact on Japan

• It led to immediate conflict

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