Townsend Harris was an American merchant, politician, and diplomat who served as the first United States Consul General to Japan. He began his career as a successful importer in New York City and later served as president of the New York City Board of Education. Appointed by President Franklin Pierce, Harris played a pivotal role in opening the Empire of Japan to foreign trade and diplomacy. His efforts culminated in the signing of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce, also known as the Harris Treaty, in 1858, which established formal diplomatic relations between the two nations.