1. Follow-up to Perry's Mission: Commodore Matthew Perry's expedition to Japan in 1854 successfully gained access to Japanese ports, but it was largely a show of force and intimidation. The U.S. government recognized the need for a skilled diplomat to follow up on Perry's mission and secure formal agreements with Japan.
2. Trade Negotiations: The main objective of Harris's mission was to negotiate a trade treaty between the United States and Japan. The U.S. wanted to gain access to Japanese markets and resources, while Japan sought to import Western technology and expertise.
3. Extraterritoriality and Consular Jurisdiction: Harris aimed to establish extraterritoriality rights in Japan, which meant that American citizens in Japan would be subject to U.S. laws rather than Japanese laws. He also wanted to secure consular jurisdiction, allowing U.S. consuls to represent American interests and resolve disputes.
4. Diplomatic Relations and Access: Harris's mission sought to establish formal diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Japan. He wanted to negotiate the exchange of diplomatic representatives, open U.S. consulates in Japan, and ensure continued access to Japanese ports for American ships and merchants.
5. Influence in East Asia: The United States was also concerned about the growing influence of European powers in East Asia, particularly Russia. By negotiating a favorable treaty with Japan, the U.S. hoped to secure a foothold in the region and counterbalance European influence.
Townsend Harris successfully negotiated the Treaty of Amity and Commerce (also known as the Harris Treaty) in 1858, which established formal diplomatic relations between the United States and Japan. The treaty provided the U.S. with desired trade access, consular jurisdiction, and the opening of additional Japanese ports to American commerce.