Ch. 14/15 Flashcards
How did the Shogun respond to foreigners?
He thought foreigners and foreign religion was a threat to his authority- he burned churches and executed people who defied him
What were the terms of the exclusion laws?
- Missionaries and traders were forced to leave/ newcomers could no longer enter
- Japanese could not leave
- Ships were not allowed to be built
- If you left Japan, you were forbidden to return
- Most foreign objects were forbidden
Why were the Dutch people the only exception to the exclusion laws?
They were only interested in trading- not spreading their religion
Who were the “dutch scholars”
Japanese people who had to learn about Dutch medicine and language
Who was William Adams? What happened to him?
The first Englishman to arrive in Japan. He became the Shogun’s advisor, changed his name, and lived-out the rest of his life in Japan
What was an “ideal society” for the Japanese?
- Peace, safety, security
- Harmony, respect, a sense that everyone has his/her place
- Leisure time and opportunities for personal expression
Was the economy strong during the Edo period?
Yes, because they had no surprises (like war) to affect their economy. They were able to produce their own resources
What are some examples of “a golden age of culture” during Edo japan?
Kabuki, Tea ceremonies, Sumo wrestling, Woodblock prints, etc.
Define: Floating worlds
A place where cultural activities like Kabuki took place. Citizens came to these places to take a break from the rigid rules of society. The shogun discouraged the floating worlds, but did not ban them.
Why were merchants near the top of the hierarchy during the end of the Edo period?
They were the most wealthy, and money was needed during this time.
What factors led to the downfall of the Edo period?
People were going bankrupt, taxes were too high, lost respect for the Shogun, struck by many natural disasters, a famine was happening
Who is Matthew Perry? What did he do?
A leader of an American ship. He ended Japan’s isolation by bringing demands to Japan from the American president
What were some external pressures (outside pressures) that caused Japan to end isolation?
- Perry’s show of strength worked (they were fearful of the Americans)
- They were fearful of another war similar to the opium war in China
What were some internal pressures (inside pressures) that caused Japan to end isolation?
- People had lost respect for the Shogun
- Starvation and famine were happening
- People were losing money
What was the civil war that happened in Japan after Perry had arrived?
Groups who were supporting the Shogun fought against groups who were supporting the Emperor. The Emperor eventually won, and the Shogun resigned in 1868
