The Explorers Podcast The Opening of Japan
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Oct 24, 2023 Portuguese merchants António Mota and Francisco Zeimoto reached Japan in 1543, introducing the arquebus musket. The podcast delves into the initial contact, communication barriers, the arrival of traders, and the adoption of firearms in late 16th century Japan.
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Japan's Isolation and Internal Conflict
- In 1540, Japan was a legendary place, unknown to Europeans but mentioned in texts like Marco Polo's.
- Though independent, Japan experienced internal chaos during the Sengoku period (1467-1615), marked by civil war.
Portugal's Rise in Asia
- The Portuguese arrival in Asia (1498) marked a turning point, linking Europe and Asia directly.
- Portugal became the dominant European power in the Far East, controlling trade routes and profiting greatly.
Rogue Merchants in the Far East
- To trade in the Far East, the Portuguese sold licenses, similar to the Spanish Royal Fifth.
- Many rogue merchants operated unofficially, smuggling goods to avoid taxes, often unnoticed by authorities.