| 1904-02-08 | | Russian Empire and Empire of Japan, began on February 8, 1904
The Russo-Japanese War, fought between the Russian Empire and Empire of Japan, began on February 8, 1904, and lasted until September 5, 1905. The conflict arose from competing imperial ambitions in Manchuria and Korea and marked a turning point in global geopolitics, as it was the first modern war in which an Asian power defeated a European empire.
Russia, aiming to extend its influence in East Asia, had built the Trans-Siberian Railway to connect its territories with ports in the Far East and sought control over Port Arthur (modern-day Lüshun). Japan initiated hostilities with a surprise naval assault on the Russian fleet stationed at Port Arthur, severely damaging Russian warships and marking the beginning of the war.
The year-long war ended with a Japanese victory and concessions from Russia including:
- Recognition of Japan’s control over Korea.
- Russian cession of Port Arthur, Liaodong Peninsula, and the southern half of Sakhalin Island to Japan.
- Russian withdrawal from southern Manchuria.
The Russo-Japanese War was a defining moment in early 20th-century history, reshaping international relations and signaling the emergence of Japan as a formidable force in global politics.
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