18th century Japan

In 18th century Japan, known as the Edo period, the country was largely peaceful and ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate, a military government. Society was organized into strict classes: samurai (warriors), farmers, artisans, and merchants. Japan had limited foreign contact to control influence and preserve stability, with trade mainly confined to China, Korea, the Netherlands, and early limited contacts with Russia. Culture flourished with unique art, literature, and theatre, notably ukiyo-e woodblock prints and Kabuki drama. Despite internal stability, economic challenges and social tensions gradually arose, setting the stage for major change in the 19th century.