Commodore Perry's expedition in 1853 led to the opening of Japan to Western trade and influence, setting the stage for political and social upheaval.
The Meiji Restoration restored imperial rule in Japan in 1868, initiating widespread modernization and the dismantling of the samurai class.
A 1877 samurai revolt led by Saigō Takamori against the Meiji government, symbolizing the end of the samurai era and challenging modernization efforts.