Alice Mabel Bacon (Biography): Alice Mabel Bacon (February 26, 1858 - May 1, 1918) was an American writer, educator, and a notable figure in the study of Japanese culture during the Meiji era. Born in New Haven, Connecticut, she developed a profound interest in Japan at the age of fourteen when her father welcomed one of the first groups of Japanese girls sent to the U.S. for education under the Meiji government. In 1883, Bacon began her career in education at Hampton Institute. Five years later, in 1888, she accepted and invitation to teach at the Peeresses' School in Tokyo, where she educated the daughters of the Japanese nobility. During her time in Japan, she immersed herself in local customs, gaining unique insights into a culture often overlooked by Western visitors. After returning to Hampton, she focused on improving healthcare for underserved communities by founding the Dixie Hospital. In 1900, Bacon returned to Japan to help establish the Women's English Preparatory School, a precursor to Tsuda College, where she worked closely with Tsuda Umeko. Throughout her life, she remained dedicated to education and the advancement of women's rights, adopting two Japanese daughters along the way. Bacon authored several influential works, including Japanese Girls and Women, published in 1891 (modernized and simplified for inclusion in this book) and A Japanese Interior, which contributed to her reputation as a leading expert on Japanese culture and women's issues. Alice Mabel Bacon passed away in her hometown in 1918, leaving behind a legacy of cross-cultural understanding and educational advancement. ----- Sidney Lewis Gulick (Biography): Sidney Lewis Gulick (April 10, 1860 - December 20, 1945) was an American educator, author, and missionary who dedicated much of his life to improving Japan-United States relations. Born in the Marshall Islands to a family of missionaries, Gulick developed a deep appreciation for Japanese culture after moving to Japan in 1888 as a missionary. He spent 25 years there, becoming fluent in Japanese and serving in various educational roles, including teaching at Doshisha University and Kyoto Imperial University.Gulick authored several influential works, including Working Women of Japan, published in 1915 (modernized and simplified for inclusion in this book). He promoted a better understanding of Japan in the West while also engaging in a complex discussion about Japan's colonial activities and advocating for Asian independence. After returning to the United States in 1913, he focused on combating discrimination against Japanese Americans, particularly during the rise of anti-Asian sentiment in the 1920s.In addition to his writings on racial issues, Gulick is well-known for initiating the doll exchange program in 1926, which aimed to foster international understanding between American and Japanese children. This successful effort symbolized his commitment to cross-cultural friendship and education. Despite facing challenges during World War II, Gulick continued to promote the importance of understanding Japanese culture until his later years. He passed away in Boise, Idaho, in 1945, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy for peace, equality, and cultural appreciation.