Latest / The Cloak and Dagger Podcast
The Black Ships - Tokyo 1853
Tranquillity and a sense of peace are two qualities that Japanese culture has a deep respect for. Even in the busy docks of Edo a state of serenity is desirable. But on a misty morning in July 1853, any hint of equanimity was shattered when Edo Bay was forcibly entered by four black ships billowing steam from their funnels.
Japan had been a closed country for over two centuries - suddenly all of that changed. These ships literally began the process of ushering Japan into the modern age and shattering the status quo.
If you want to see this episode’s accompanying images, bonus facts and a…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.