Book Presentation “Rutgers Meets Japan — A Trans-Pacific Network of the Late Nineteenth Century”
Book Launch and Signing Event by Haruko Wakabayashi and Fernanda Perrone
Please join us to hear Haruko Wakabayashi and Fernanda Perrone’s captivating story of the first Japanese students to attend Rutgers University in their new book, Rutgers Meets Japan.
In 1867, Kusakabe Taro, a young samurai from Fukui, Japan, became one of the first two Japanese students to study at a college in America. He was a top student at Rutgers and was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa Society. Unfortunately, he died of tuberculosis in April 1870, only weeks before commencement. That same year, 1870, former tutor, friend, and Rutgers graduate William Elliot Griffis left for Japan to teach English and Science. So begins an epic relationship between Japan and the US and the Rutgers connection.
Following the talk, books will be available for purchase at a special 35% discount, with a book signing and reception.
Haruko Wakabayashi, Ph.D., is Associate Teaching Professor of Asian Languages and Cultures, Rutgers University.
Fernanda Perrone, Ph.D., is an Archivist & Head of the Exhibitions Program at Rutgers University Libraries.
Time: 2:00 pm EDT
Free!
