What was Japan's policy toward European trade during the 1500s?
1 Answer
Japan attempted to block all trade with European nations to preserve traditional Japanese culture.
Explanation:
The Porteguese had established trade with Japan. This European trade brought fire arms that changed the style of Japanese clan warfare. The trade also brought Catholic Christianity to Japan. The conflict for Japanese Christians between clan loyalty and loyalty to the Catholic Church was a threat to Japanese Culture.
Once the Shogun had conquered all the rival clans he instituted a system of hostages of family members of rival clans that kept the peace. He also outlawed Christianity and limited to one port trade with European Nations. He especially stopped the importation of western firearms.
It wasn't until admiral Perry of the United States used his modern navy to force open the port of Edo ( now Tokyo ) that Japan again became open to European trade.
