Russo-Japonese War Flashcards
1
Q
What were Russia’s motivations for going to war with Japan?
A
- Would strengthen Russia’s world standing
- Would divert attention away from socioeconomic and domestic issues within Russia
- Would provide a chance to expand in the Far East by excercising power in Manchuria and Korea
- Chance to develop Port Arthur
2
Q
Why was the Russia defeated?
A
- Russian troops were outnumbered (lost 60,000 soldiers at Batte of Mukden)
- Japanese navy were technologically superior (sunk 7/11 Russian battleships and captured the remaining 4)
- Underestimated the Japanese army (fight or die kamikaze mentality vs nepotistic and forced conscripted Russian army)
- Unable to transport soldiers, supplies and artillery (due to poor infrastructure
3
Q
How was Russian Prestige impacted?
A
National humiliation for Russia to be defeated by a smaller, ‘inferior’ Asian country. Was the first major defeat of a European power by an Asian power
4
Q
How was the economy impacted?
A
- Post-war recuperation exacerbated already struggling economy
- Russian fleets were now destroyed and needed replacement
- Lost trading rights in Far East, especially Manchuria
- Increased military spending by 50%
- Food shortages, high prices, unemployment, wages dropped by 20%
5
Q
How did it affect Russia politically?
A
- Exposed military incompetence of the Tsar in eyes of Russians. Led to discontent
- Strained relationship with Britain as fishing vessels were attacked by Baltic fleet on the way to Port Arthur and Britain was allied with Japan at the time
6
Q
How did this affect Russia territorially?
A
- Russia lost Port Arthur, claims in Korea and Manchuria
- Loss of taxable populations and industry in East Asia
7
Q
Who did it impact opposition for the Tsar?
A
- Tsar Nicholas was seen as incompetent and reckless
- Mobilised opposition groups to capitalise on embarrassing failures
- Seen as a catalyst for 1905 Revolution
8
Q
How did this impact Russia socially?
A
- Conditions in Russia were worsened
- Urbanisation led to decline in healthcare standards
9
Q
Counter SK: How was the war not a complete failure?
A
Witte expertly negotiated Treaty of Portsmouth - conditions could have been far harsher
- Increased spending on transport and communication did lead to urbanisation to solve these issues
