How did trade develop between Japan and Europe in the 1500s?
How and why did the Tokugawas isolate Japan?
http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/main_pop/kpct/kp_tokugawa.htm
To understand how trade developed between Japan and Europe in the 1500s, we need to explore the historical context and the events that led to this development.
During this period, Japan was ruled by feudal lords known as daimyos, and the country was divided into separate territories. Portuguese explorers, led by Ferdinand Magellan, reached Japan in 1543, marking the beginning of European contact with the country. The Portuguese introduced firearms, Christianity, and trade goods such as silk, spices, and silver to Japan.
Trade between Japan and Europe expanded rapidly during the late 16th and early 17th century, primarily through the efforts of Portuguese and Spanish traders. Spanish galleons, known as the Manila Galleons, brought goods from the Spanish colonies in the Philippines to Japan.
However, the Tokugawa shogunate, led by Tokugawa Ieyasu, rose to power in 1603. The Tokugawas aimed to centralize power in Japan and maintain strict control over foreign influences. This led to their policy of sakoku (closed country), which began around 1635.
The Tokugawa shogunate restricted foreign contact and trade, which affected European trade with Japan. During this period, only the Dutch and Chinese traders were allowed limited access to Japan, and all other foreign traders were expelled. Consequently, trade between Japan and Europe became increasingly limited and controlled.
As for why the Tokugawas isolated Japan, there were a few key reasons. Firstly, they sought to maintain stability and control over their domain. By limiting foreign influences and trade, the shogunate aimed to minimize external threats to their rule. They were wary of the spread of Christianity and feared that it could undermine their authority.
Secondly, the emerging European powers, such as Spain and Portugal, brought with them imperial ambitions and conflicts. The Tokugawas wanted to reduce such potential conflicts and maintain a sense of isolation and self-sufficiency.
Finally, the shogunate was concerned about the outflow of precious metals, especially silver, from Japan. They feared that this would lead to inflation and the devaluation of the currency. By restricting trade and limiting contact with foreigners, the Tokugawas aimed to control the outflow of precious resources.
In summary, trade developed between Japan and Europe in the 1500s due to the initial Portuguese exploration and subsequent introduction of European goods to Japan. However, the Tokugawa shogunate later isolated Japan from much foreign contact and trade, primarily to maintain control, stability, and protect against external influences.