The History of Japan

Between 1543 and 1615, Europeans enjoyed relative freedom of movement in Japan, with trading stations established by the Spanish, Dutch, English, and Portuguese. However, concerns arose over the influence of foreigners, particularly regarding religion. As the Portuguese and Spanish attempted to convert the Japanese to Christianity, the emperor, seen as a living god, considered it a threat to their rule and expelled them. Meanwhile, the English, still establishing themselves as a world power, found their endeavors in Japan unprofitable and chose to leave.