Why did Japan choose to trade with the Dutch exclusively?

Japan chose to trade exclusively with the Dutch due to their non-interference in Japan's internal affairs and religious matters.

In the 17th century, Japan adopted a policy of national seclusion, known as Sakoku, which severely limited its interactions with the outside world. This policy was largely a reaction to the perceived threat of Christianity, which was introduced by Portuguese and Spanish missionaries and was seen as a destabilising influence. The Dutch, unlike the Spanish and Portuguese, were primarily interested in trade and did not attempt to convert the Japanese to Christianity. This made them more acceptable to the Japanese authorities.

The Dutch were also seen as less of a political threat. The Spanish and Portuguese were associated with the expansionist policies of their respective countries, which had established vast colonial empires. The Dutch, on the other hand, were seen as more interested in commerce than in territorial expansion. This made them less threatening to the Japanese authorities, who were keen to maintain their independence and sovereignty.

Furthermore, the Dutch were able to offer goods that were in high demand in Japan. These included not only luxury items such as silk and spices, but also practical goods such as guns and ammunition. The Dutch were also able to provide the Japanese with access to European knowledge and technology, which was highly valued.

Finally, the Dutch were willing to accept the strict conditions imposed by the Japanese authorities. These included restrictions on their movements and on their interactions with the Japanese population. The Dutch were willing to accept these conditions because they valued the profits they could make from the Japan trade.

IB History Tutor Summary: Japan traded exclusively with the Dutch in the 17th century because the Dutch focused on trade without trying to convert the Japanese to Christianity or interfering in their politics. Unlike the Spanish and Portuguese, the Dutch posed less of a threat and complied with Japan's strict trading conditions, while also providing valuable goods and knowledge