1. Introduction
Japan has a long and complex history, and one of the defining elements of that history is its period of isolationism. For over two hundred years, Japan closed its borders to the outside world and forbade any foreign contact. This period of self-imposed isolation was known as Sakoku, and it had a lasting impact on the country’s culture, politics, and economy. In this article, we will explore why Japan chose to close itself off from the rest of the world and examine the implications this period of isolation had on Japan’s development.
2. Historical Context
The period of Japanese isolationism began in 1639 when Tokugawa Iemitsu issued an edict that prohibited Japanese citizens from leaving the country and barred foreigners from entering it. This edict was part of a larger policy known as “Sakoku” which literally translates to “closed country” or “closed port”. The policy was designed to protect Japan from potential threats posed by foreign powers such as European nations who were already trading with East Asia at the time.
3. Political and Cultural Factors
Political factors played a major role in why Japan chose to close itself off from other countries during this period. The Tokugawa Shogunate used Sakoku as a way to maintain control over their people by limiting contact with outside influences that could potentially destabilize their rule. Additionally, they sought to maintain a sense of cultural purity by preventing foreign ideologies or religions from entering Japan during this time.
4. Economic Factors
Economic considerations were also an important factor in why Japan decided to close itself off from foreign trade during this time period. The Tokugawa Shogunate wanted to limit competition for Japanese merchants by preventing foreign goods from entering the country, thus allowing them to maintain their monopoly over certain industries such as silk production. Additionally, they wanted to prevent inflation caused by an influx of foreign currency into Japan which could have had serious economic consequences for their people at the time.
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- 376 Pages - 08/22/2014 (Publication Date) - Learn From Zero (Publisher)
- Ken Fukuyama, Yuki Fukuyama (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 246 Pages - 10/11/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
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- Sumiko Uo (Author)
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5. The Impact of Isolationism on Japan
The period of isolationism had both positive and negative impacts on Japanese society during this time period. On one hand, it allowed for greater political stability under the rule of the Tokugawa Shogunate as well as promoting cultural homogeneity within Japanese society due to limited contact with outside influences.On the other hand, it prevented technological advancement due to lack of access to new technologies developed in other parts of the world as well as stunting economic growth due to limited trade opportunities with other countries.
6. The Reopening of Japan in the Meiji Period
The period of isolation ended in 1853 when U.S Commodore Matthew Perry arrived in Tokyo Bay with four warships demanding that Japan open its ports for trade with America.This event marked the beginning of what is known today as “the Meiji Restoration” which saw a rapid modernization process take place within Japan until 1912 when Emperor Meiji died.During this period,many aspects such as politics,economics,education,military,technology,art,literature etc were reformed according modern Western standards.
7 Modern Day Implications Of Isolationism
Although modern day Japan no longer practices Sakoku or self-imposed isolationism,there are still some aspects that can be seen today which are remnants from this era.For example,there is still a strong sense nationalism within Japanese society that can be traced back historically.Additionally,there are still certain industries such as fishing and agriculture where protectionist policies are practiced meaning that these sectors remain largely domestic despite increased globalisation.
8 Conclusion
In conclusion,although Sakoku ended over 150 years ago its effects still linger today throughout many aspects Japanese society.Through understanding why Japan chose self-imposed isolationism we can gain insight into how modern day policies have been shaped by historical events.
9 Sources
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Tokyo Photo Guide: What Was Sakoku? (n d ) Retrieved June 2nd 2020 https://tokyophotoguide com/what-was-sakoku/
Japan Guide: History Of Japan (n d ) Retrieved June 2nd 2020 https://www japan guide com/e/e2071 html
- Used Book in Good Condition
- George Trombley (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 376 Pages - 08/22/2014 (Publication Date) - Learn From Zero (Publisher)
- Ken Fukuyama, Yuki Fukuyama (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 246 Pages - 10/11/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Sumiko Uo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 01/01/2005 (Publication Date) - QuickStudy (Publisher)
What made Japan a closed country?
The idea that Japan was closed off is clearly true in the sense that like all pre-industrial societies it was essentially closed to interaction with outsiders. The elites of such societies may have had some contact with the territories they controlled as well as with the inhabitants of the frontier regions.
Why Japan stop isolating itself?
Japans isolation ended in 1853 when Commodore Matthew Perry of the United States Navy at the head of a squadron of two steamers and two yachts entered Tokyo harbor. He tried to force the Japanese to end their isolation and open their ports to trade with American merchant ships.
When did Japan close itself from the world?
In response they effectively isolated the islands from the outside world in 1603 with no Japanese allowed to leave and very few foreigners allowed to enter. It became known as Japans Edo period and the borders remained closed for nearly three centuries
Why did the US force Japan to open?
The US wants Japan to agree to open some ports so US ships can begin trading with the mysterious island nation. In addition to being interested in the Japanese market the United States also needed Japanese ports to supply the merchant whaling fleet with coal and supplies.
How did Japan stay isolated for 200 years?
From the 17th to the 19th century Japan pursued a policy of isolation from the outside world. This long period of isolation is called sakoku. During the Sakoku era no Japanese could leave the country on pain of death and very few foreigners were allowed to enter and trade in Japan.
How did isolation hurt Japan?
Japans isolation is helping the economy. The Japanese economy thrived thanks to a long period of stability and peace. Yet they continued to conduct petty trade with foreigners and subjugate their own people using rice as payment which greatly affected them.
