Commodore Perry's Black Ships were American naval vessels that arrived in Japan in 1853, symbolizing the forced opening of Japan to Western trade and diplomacy after over two centuries of isolation. In contrast, the Great White Fleet, which was a group of U.S. Navy battleships painted white, embarked on a worldwide tour in 1907 to showcase American naval power and promote goodwill. While Perry's Black Ships signified a confrontational approach to opening closed markets, the Great White Fleet represented a demonstration of American strength and a diplomatic mission.