Debate Speech: Should Japan maintain its Isolationist Policies?
Compose and present a debate speech outlining why Japan should or should not continue its policy of
isolationism. You may assume one of the following roles from which to present your point of view.
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Ainu
daimyo
samurai
farmer
English or Dutch trader
Christian missionary
Artisan or craftsman
geisha
1.Investigate the conditions and experiences of your chosen role in order to determine how people in
that role might have viewed the following aspects of Edo society:
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The feudal system
The hierarchical social classes
Japan’s growing economy
The new urban way of life
Japan’s isolationism
Remember to imagine you are from the Edo time period. Try to examine these roles through a
perspective other than your modern-day, Western worldview lens.
2. Using the debate speech guidelines provided, write a speech which will be presented to the Shogun
(teacher) based on the perspective of your chosen role. The speech should recommend retention or
abandonment of the isolationist policies in the late Edo period.
The speech should address these four topics:
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The feudal system
Their place in Edo society
The growing economy and new urban culture
The isolationist policies of the time
Your speech should:
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Be historically accurate
Provide specific details
Show insight into the perspective of your chosen group
3. Record yourself presenting your speech. It is not essential that your speech is memorized, however,
your delivery should be convincing. The more prepared you are, the more convincing your speech.
4. Submit your written version of your debate speech as well as emailing your recorded performance.