To what extent was Western intrusion the main reason for discontent during the Tokugawa Shogunate?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that Western intrusion was the main reason for discontent during the Tokugawa Shogunate. Reasons may predate the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to the rise of anti-Western sentiment following the arrival of Matthew Perry in the 1850s, the results of which included unequal trade treaties with Western powers. This discontent was manifested in the ideology of sonnō jōi (“revere the king, expel the barbarians”), and would eventually lead to the Boshin War. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example, discontent amongst the nobility which was a result of their expulsion from power since the establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate, as well as the increasing influence of supporters of the emperor (known as ishin shishi). Candidates may also refer to the inflexible and outdated nature of the Tokugawa regime, which led to further discontent, but with a focus on the issue in the question. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

There were numerous responses to this question. Candidates were required to consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that Western intrusion was the main reason for discontent during the Tokugawa Shogunate. There was excellent knowledge demonstrated of the economic and political problems facing Japan in the time period before the arrival of westerners. Some responses lacked in-depth knowledge and analysis of the impact of western intrusion.