Struggle for Negotiation Mandate

The chapter delves into the internal tensions within Japan following the Perry expedition, focusing on the diverging views on how to handle the Americans. It highlights Abe Masahiro's struggle to secure a clear mandate for negotiation amidst the division among daimyo factions. The debate within Japan between building a navy for defense and opposing compromise with the West is explored, leading to the appointment of Hota as the new leader advocating for compromise to avoid conflict.