を皮切りに

を皮切りに is used to indicate that something begins with a particular event or action, which then becomes the starting point for a series of related events or changes. It emphasizes that the first event is important or symbolic, and that similar or connected actions continue afterward. The focus is not only on the beginning, but also on the development that follows. This grammar is commonly used in formal or written Japanese, especially in news reports, articles, and historical descriptions. 「して」 can be added after を皮切りに, but the meaning does not change.