Description of how the Movie "The Last Samurai" Portrays the Effects of Western Imperialism on Japan

This movie was set in Japan during the late 19th century. An American general who was famous for his many victorious battles against the Native Americans was called to Japan for a special task. The Japanese government was looking to make their civilization as western as possible. They adopted Western dress and began to shy away from the old warrior ways. New technologies such as firearms, cannons, trains, and photography were being instituted into their culture. The only thing holding the government back form being totally westernized was a group of rebels that wanted Japan to stay as it was and not forget its long and treasured history. …