
Originally Posted by
Biggles
I think that might slightly overstate Snny's position but if doesn't he is on his own with that one. It is undeniable that Japan viewed US influence in the region somewhat unfavourably and the blockade by the US navy did cause the Edo regime to fall and a more anti-foreign (although not anti-science or technology) Government to form. This did in turn lead to conflicts with China, Russia and Korea and an increasingly powerful and successful Japanese military.
One might argue that this would have occurred anyway but contra-factual history is always shakey. If there had been no blockade in 1854 might Pearl Harbour not have happened? If Pearl Harbour had not happened would the US have sat out on WW2 and D Day not occurred? The Russians might have prevailed and the most of continental Europe would have come under Soviet direction. Stuff of science fiction "don't touch anything if you travel back in time" sort of thing.
Phloppy's book over on t'other side is about this sort of thing. It's quite interesting.
To be honest as far as Japan is concerned, you pays your money you take your chances. You start a war with another country, no matter how much you think they deserve it, you have to stand by the consequences. I have no sympathy for them really.
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