Japan's reforms from 1868 to 1912 enabled the country to grow stronger economically, develop its own resources and force an end to unfair treaties. They did not deal with the west on equal terms.
I believe the answer is "change to meet the needs of a modern society".
The majority of colonists believed the stamp act was a violation of their rights to be taxed without their consent. They believed only the colonial legislature had the right to grant consent.
