Dive into the captivating tale of Japan's 1860 leap from centuries of isolation to forging ties with the U.S. Uncover their daring voyage, America's samurai intrigue, and the birth of a legendary alliance.

In September 1960, the U.S. and Japan celebrated 100 years of diplomatic relations with a state visit. An amusing article was published in the Washington Post detailing the state dinner at the White House, including when Mary Jean Eisenhower detoured traffic. Read the full story here!

In the hours before Pearl Harbor, Washington Post articles spoke of the failing negotiations between the U.S. and Japan. Read about the articles and President Roosevelt's dramatic move to prevent war. See his "Date Which Will Live in Infamy" speech and related articles.