Short Historical Essay on Russo-Japanese

Japan after waging a war against China in 1894-95 had captured Liaotung according to the treaty of Shimonoseko signed between the two countries. But Japan could not take any advantage of her victory. She was compelled by France, Germany and Russia to give up her control over Liaotung and Russia established her sway over Liaotung.

It was not liked by Japan but she had to swallow the bitter pill as she had ho other alternative except to accept their proposals. But Japan always remained on the lookout for an opportunity to get back the island of Liaotung from Russia.

Anglo-Japanese Treaty of 1902

Japan had to give up her control over Liaotung due to the pressure of France, Germany and Russia but Japan took every seriously. She felt an urgent need of a powerful friend who could help her in peril.

Therefore, she concluded a treaty with England in 1902 and strengthened her position. Some scholars are of the opinion that the Anglo-Japanese treaty was the chief reason of the outbreak of Russo-Japanese war as it created a climate of confidence in Japan and strengthened her position.

The Problem of Manchuria

Manchuria was an apple of discord between Japan and Russia. Both wanted to establish their sway over it. Russia was dominating Manchuria but after the formation of Anglo-Japanese alliance, she concluded a treaty with China and promised to vacate Manchuria and Korea in 1902. She also admitted the Chinese domination over Manchuria.

But later on Russia demanded trading facilities and pressurised China, in case, she desired possession over Manchuria. This demand of the Russians was against the terms of the treaty of 1902, concluded between Russia and China. China refused to grant Russia any concession for trading. This strained the relations between Russia and Japan.

The Problem of Korea

Both Russia and Japan were interested in capturing Korea. Russians were increasing their influence in northern Korea. They were busy felling timber on the bank of Yalu river. Japan opposed this action of Russia as it was against the terms of the treaty. On this small issue the Russian and Japanese soldiers opened fire on one another which resulted in the death of some Russian soldiers.

Russia felt much offended at this and sent her troops in Korea to punish the Japanese. Japan protested against it but Russia paid no attention to her. Thus Japan was compelled to declare war against Russia on 5th February 1904.

Russia was not fully prepared for the war due to lack of means of communication and disintegration of her army but Japan was prepared to wage the war. Her fleet was very powerful and she had organised her forces in fighting trim.

The Events of War

The Russo-Japanese war was fought both on sea and land. At the outset of this war Admiral Tojo of Japan destroyed the fleet of Russia in Port Arthur and captured it. Japan made it a military camp to face the Russian armies in Manchuria. Japan having achieved several victories advanced toward Liaotung after crossing Korea. Russians were also defeated in Liaotung and Shaho.

A terrible battle was fought at Mukden between Russia and Japan in which a great number of soldiers were Sailed. Ultimately the Japanese achieved victory over the Russians and established their control over Korea.

Russian fleet was passing through the Baltic Sea. Admiral Tojo attacked it and gained victory. By this time both the countries were worn out by the constant war and concluded a treaty which was proposed by the intervention of the President of America.

Treaty of Portsmouth

The following terms and conditions were accepted by both the countries after a prolonged war:

1. The influence of Japan over Korea was accepted.

2. Russia promised to vacate Manchuria.

3. Japan got Liaotung, Port Arthur and southern part of Sakhalin island.

Results of War

The consequences of Russo-Japanese war proved to be quite significant and they made a great impact upon Japan, China and Russia. It was a decisive battle. Its consequences were very significant.