Matthew Calbraith Perry, also known as "The Father of the Steam Navy" for his activity towards modernization of the American Navy, was a commodore of the United States Navy who commanded ships in several wars, including the War of 1812 and the Mexican American War. He also played a leading role in the opening of Japan to the West with the Convention of Kanagawa in 1854. This book presents a biographical account of his life and deeds.