In Our Time The Russo-Japanese War
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Apr 1, 2021 
Simon Dixon, an expert in Russian history, Naoko Shimazu, a specialist in Japanese society, and Oleg Benesch, a reader in modern history, delve into the tumultuous Russo-Japanese War. They discuss Japan's audacious attack on Port Arthur, igniting global tensions, and how rapid modernization transformed its military and society. The conversation highlights Russia's naval mishaps, the clash of honor and duty among Japanese soldiers, and the war's lasting impact on national identity and anti-colonial sentiment in Japan.
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Rapid Modernization
- The modernization of Japan was remarkable for its speed, achieving in 40 years what took Europe 400.
- This rapid transformation was driven by leaders primarily from Western Japan, historically opposed to the Tokugawa shogunate.
Russia's Eastern Ambitions
- Russia's interest in East Asia stemmed from a desire to project itself as a Eurasian empire after its humiliation in the Crimean War.
- This ambition led to territorial expansion in Central Asia and eventually to the occupation of Manchuria and the building of Port Arthur.
Japanese National Identity
- The common narrative of a monolithic, patriotic Japan during the Russo-Japanese War is a simplification.
- Research reveals contradictions and local agendas often overriding national interests, largely due to the state's financial constraints.