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The first was signed in London on January 30 1902 by Lord Lansdowne (British foreign secretary) and Hayashi Tadasu (Japanese minister in London). The alliance was renewed and extended in scope twice, in 1905 and 1911 before its demise in 1921. It officially terminated on August 17, 1923.
Outline Briefly, the benefit of the alliance to Britain was the establishment of an ally in East Asia who could help contain Russia and protect British commercial interests in China. It helped Britain's navy by providing coaling stations and repair facilities. For Japan, it was a necessary step in achieving further recognition as a Power (if not a Great Power) and gave her the confidence to challenge Russia's occupation of Manchuria and designs on Korea. The Russo-Japanese War (1904-05) broke out two years later in February 1904. In response to this alliance, Russia chose to form an alliance with France and Germany, of which Germany declined. On March 16, a mutual pact was signed between France and Russia. The alliance was renewed and strengthened in 1905 and 1911. The treaty's provisions for mutual defence prompted Japan to enter World War I on the British side. The treaty expired in 1921, much to the regret of Sir Charles Eliot, and the pleasure of the United States and China. See also | ||||||||
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