Episode 11 - The End of an Era

In this episode of the History of Japan podcast, Isaac Meyer discusses the Bakumatsu period, focusing on the collapse of the Tokugawa Bakufu and the events leading to the Meiji Restoration. He outlines key concepts, such as the strength of the Bakufu until 1866 and the inevitability of change regardless of Western influence. Meyer also touches on the economic and political issues plaguing the Bakufu, the arrival of Commodore Perry, the unequal treaties, and the emergence of anti-Bakufu movements like Sonno Joi. The episode details the internal conflicts, the rise of key figures, and the eventual overthrow of the Bakufu, setting the stage for the Meiji Restoration and Japan's modernization. Meyer also provides programming notes, including schedule changes due to his upcoming trip to Japan.