The two sloops-of-war were tasked with protecting American lives by landing a 150-man detachment of marines and sailors in Canton.

Commanded by both Commodore James Armstrong and Captain Henry H. Bell, USS San Jacinto arrived in Canton's harbor and learned of the occupation.

As he rowed past the Pearl River Forts, the Chinese garrison fired on the small American boat a few times[citation needed] but the withdrawal continued.

Now a force of one steam frigate the (San Jacinto), and two sloops-of-war, the naval squadron under James Armstrong made their way up the Pearl River and launched an attack on Canton's coastal forts.

This bombardment lasted until the Chinese batteries weakened slightly, after which the Levant, commanded by William N. Smith, received 22 cannonball shots in her sails, rigging, and hull.

America's opening of Asia continued into the 1860s with conflict, such as the Battle of Shimonoseki Straits and a following bombardment, as well as an expedition to Korea in the 1870s.