Anti-foreign sentiment refers to the feelings of hostility, distrust, or resentment towards foreign nations and their influence within a country. In the context of Japan during the 19th century, this sentiment was particularly pronounced during the decline of the Tokugawa shogunate and the subsequent restoration of imperial rule, as many Japanese felt threatened by the encroachment of Western powers and sought to preserve their national identity and sovereignty.
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The arrival of Commodore Perry's Black Ships in 1853 marked a significant turning point, igniting anti-foreign sentiment among many Japanese who viewed Western powers as a threat to their way of life.
Anti-foreign sentiment was fueled by incidents such as the unequal treaties imposed on Japan by Western nations, which undermined Japanese sovereignty and economic independence.
The Sonno Joi movement rallied supporters around a nationalist agenda, promoting the idea that Japan must expel foreigners to protect its culture and political autonomy.
Anti-foreign feelings contributed to social unrest and played a role in the eventual overthrow of the Tokugawa shogunate, leading to the establishment of a more centralized imperial government.
As Japan transitioned into the Meiji era, anti-foreign sentiment began to shift towards a focus on modernization and military strength, as leaders sought to establish Japan as an equal among Western powers.
Review Questions
How did anti-foreign sentiment contribute to political changes during the fall of the Tokugawa shogunate?
Anti-foreign sentiment significantly influenced political changes during the fall of the Tokugawa shogunate by fostering a climate of resistance against foreign intervention. As Western powers pressured Japan to open its ports through unequal treaties, many Japanese viewed these actions as violations of their sovereignty. This rising animosity towards foreigners united various factions within Japan, ultimately helping to mobilize support for movements like Sonno Joi, which called for the expulsion of foreigners and led to increased dissatisfaction with Tokugawa rule.
Analyze how incidents involving foreigners exacerbated anti-foreign sentiment in Japan during the late Edo period.
Incidents involving foreigners greatly exacerbated anti-foreign sentiment in Japan during the late Edo period. Events such as violent clashes between Japanese citizens and foreign sailors highlighted cultural misunderstandings and resentment towards perceived foreign arrogance. The imposition of unequal treaties further inflamed public anger, as these agreements favored Western powers at Japan's expense. Such tensions contributed to a growing nationalist fervor that demanded action against foreign presence and interference, culminating in social upheaval that played a pivotal role in dismantling the Tokugawa regime.
Evaluate how anti-foreign sentiment transformed during the Meiji Restoration and its impact on Japan's international relations.
During the Meiji Restoration, anti-foreign sentiment transformed significantly as Japan shifted from isolationism to embracing modernization. Initially characterized by hostility towards foreigners, this sentiment evolved into a desire for Japan to compete with Western nations on equal footing. The government adopted policies aimed at strengthening military and industrial capabilities while also selectively engaging with foreign powers. This shift allowed Japan to renegotiate unequal treaties and establish itself as a formidable force in international relations, marking its emergence as an imperial power by the early 20th century.
A policy of national isolation enforced by the Tokugawa shogunate, limiting foreign influence and trade in Japan from the early 17th century until the mid-19th century.
A political movement that emerged during the late Tokugawa period advocating for reverence towards the emperor and expulsion of foreign influence from Japan.