What was the main factor that helped the Meiji restoration prevent the colonization of Japan?
A.
The restoration restored the tradition of Japanese martial arts, which helped combat Western forces.
B.
More ports were readily opened to trade with the West, eliminating the need for colonization.
C.
The Japanese gained US protection after the signing of the Treaty of Kanagawa.
D.
Rapid modernization and the formation of a strong military made Japan very powerful.
E.
The restoration helped the Japanese conquer European colonies, shifting the balance of power.

The Meiji restoration was crucial for Japan and its development. Instead of being colonized like most of the Asian countries, Japan became the invader. The Meiji restoration brought in big changes in Japan, quickly industrializing the nation, making it economically strong, and creating a modern and very powerful army. All this made the colonial powers think twice before they try anything with Japan, so they tried to avoid any conflict with it. In fact, Japan became so strong, that in the years to come it managed to defeat Russia and China on its own, and started to colonize parts of Asia afterwards.