Why did the Japanese restore the Meiji emperor to power after the Harris Treaty opened Japan to foreign trade?

Answer: To try to protect their economic interests and continue to pursue a commercial policy of absolute closure to the world.

Explanation:

For centuries, the Japanese have resisted the influence of European traders in their efforts to make Japan begin a more liberal trade policy and create a more flexible market for the impact of foreign traders. Japan has successfully resisted all pressure. They were rigid in their views and decided to expel all foreign merchants altogether.

The strengthening of America as a global power in the mid-nineteenth century actualized this issue. The United States wanted to expand its trade influence to this part of the world. The pressures of the united states led to turmoil in the top of the Japanese nation, and with specific inversions and unrest within the rulers sought to shake off American influence. Americans wanted to protect their interests at all costs, even concerning the use of force.