Commodore Perry Notes

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Coal was of utmost importance, as was discussed at length [329]

The first actual conference was held on March 8, 1854. Yokohama was preferred over Kanagawa because Perry wanted the negotiations within artillery range of his armada. The Japanese high officials were Hayashi Daigaku, Ido, prince of Tsusima, and the prince of Mimasaki. The Japanese proposed that it would see to “the saving of ships and their crews in distress.” They offered to start supplying coal at Nagasaki commencing in February 1855, and to prepare a harbor of the American’s choice within five years. [331-336]

Perry, in reply, said he wanted a treaty like the one China had signed with the U.S. He threatened bringing more warships if Japan did not cooperate. In a note to them he wrote “these treaties have become necessary to avert contention and war.” [336-337]

Perry offered some inducements, like the charts he had made of Japanese waters, and indicating that the U.S. would buy large quantities of tea and silk. [338]

While negotiations proceeded, on March 13 the America gave presents. The American presents included a miniature locomotive with tracks, a telegraph, and other then-modern mechanical and electrical devices. [341-342]

The Commodore insisted on a minimum of three ports; Napha in Okinawa, Simoda (Shimoda), and Hakodadi [Hakodate] were chosen after negotiations. [348-350]

On Friday, March 31, 1854 the Kanagawa Treaty was signed. [375]

The treaty provided for “perfect, permanent, and universal peace,” between the United States and Japan. Shimoda and Hakodadi [Hakodate] would be trading ports for American ships. In addition, any privilege granted to any other nation by Japan would be automatically granted to the U.S. [but not vice-versa]. [375-377]. [It is notable that the treaty gave no reciprocal privileges to Japan]

Perry Notes start