Black Ship Incident

The Black Ship Incident refers to when Commodore Matthew Perry of the United States arrived in Japan in 1853 with warships, known as "Black Ships" due to their blackened iron hulls. His mission was to open Japan to trade after over two centuries of isolation. The display of military strength pressured Japan to end its policy of seclusion, leading to the signing of the Treaty of Kanagawa in 1854. This event marked a significant turning point, initiating Japan's modernization and integration into the international community.