Commodore Matthew Perry (naval officer)

Commodore Matthew Perry was a prominent U.S. Navy officer in the 19th century who played a key role in opening Japan to the Western world. In 1853 and 1854, he led a fleet of American ships to Japan, which had been isolated for centuries. His diplomatic efforts resulted in the Treaty of Kanagawa, establishing trade and diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Japan. Perry's actions significantly influenced Japan's modernization and integration into global affairs, marking a pivotal moment in international diplomacy and economic history.