Portuguese Trade: Prior to the Sakoku Edict, Portugal had established trade relations with Japan during the Nanban period (1543-1614). Portuguese traders introduced firearms and Christianity but were eventually expelled due to concerns about their influence.
Dutch Trade: Despite Sakoku's restrictions, the Tokugawa Shogunate maintained limited trade relations with the Dutch through a designated trading post on Dejima Island. The Dutch were allowed to bring in goods and exchange knowledge within specific boundaries.
Matthew Perry: An American naval officer who arrived in Japan in 1853 with a fleet of warships. His forceful arrival led to the opening of Japan's ports for trade and ultimately contributed to the end of Sakoku.