Perry's expedition and Japan's later strategic fears

One proposed connection runs from Japan's forced opening to its later fears of losing its culture and being overwhelmed by others, including motives for entering the Second World War. In this critical reading, Perry completed his immediate mission, while his use of threats and rejection of accompanying diplomats undermined the basis for lasting relations. The American expectation that access to new trade, ships, and weapons would benefit Japan is set against the resentment generated by being compelled to accept them. Immediate mission success and the creation of a durable relationship are treated as different outcomes.