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Following the Monroe Doctrine of 1823, the United States embraced a policy of continental expansionism guided by the concept of Manifest Destiny. This conviction encouraged Americans to enlarge their boundaries and expand their influence westward across the continent. The desire for new markets, access to resources, and an increased global presence further motivated American engagement beyond its borders.
China: Trade and Commercial Opportunities
- Economic Incentives: The United States was driven by economic interests and the possibility of profitable trade with China. China's vast population represented an enormous market for American goods, and Chinese commodities such as tea and silk were highly sought after in the West.
- Opening China's Ports: American traders had long been restricted from trading with China due to the Chinese policy of isolation. However, China's defeat in the Opium Wars with Britain in the 1840s led to the opening of several Chinese ports to foreign trade, including Shanghai, Guangzhou (Canton), and others. The United States saw this as an opportunity to establish direct trade relations with China.
Japan: Isolation and Diplomatic Overtures
- Isolation Policy: Japan had pursued a policy of isolation known as "sakoku" since the 17th century. This isolationist approach restricted foreign trade and diplomatic contact.
- Commodore Matthew Perry's Mission: In 1853, the United States sent Commodore Matthew Perry's naval expedition to Japan with a letter from President Millard Fillmore requesting diplomatic and trade relations. Perry's show of force and display of American military and technological might convinced Japan to enter negotiations.
The Result: Treaties of Trade and Diplomatic Relations
- The Treaty of Wanghia (1844): The United States and China signed this treaty, which established diplomatic relations between the two nations and granted the US extraterritorial rights and a most favored nation status.
- The Harris Treaty (1858): Commodore Perry's mission culminated in the signing of the Harris Treaty between the United States and Japan. This treaty ended Japan's isolation, opened several Japanese ports to American trade, and secured favorable trade terms for the United States.
These treaties marked the beginning of an increasing American presence and influence in the East Asia region, setting the stage for future developments and interactions between the United States, China, and Japan.