Treaty of Portsmouth

The Treaty of Portsmouth was a peace agreement signed in September 1905. A treaty is a formal written agreement between countries. This treaty officially ended the Russo-Japanese War, a conflict fought between the Russian Empire and the Empire of Japan. The agreement was signed in the town of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in the United States. It marked the end of fighting and set the terms for peace between the two nations.

The Russo-Japanese War began in 1904. It was caused by rivalry between Russia and Japan over influence in East Asia. Both countries wanted control over parts of Korea and Manchuria. Manchuria is a large region in northeastern China. The war included land battles and major naval battles, such as the Battle of Tsushima. Japan won several important victories. By 1905, both sides were tired from fighting and faced serious costs.

The United States played an important role in ending the war. President Theodore Roosevelt offered to help both sides reach peace. He invited representatives from Japan and Russia to meet in the United States. Negotiations began in August 1905. Negotiations are formal discussions meant to reach an agreement. The talks were held in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, away from the fighting and closer to a neutral setting.

During the negotiations, both sides made demands. Japan wanted recognition of its control over Korea and parts of Manchuria. Russia wanted to limit its losses and avoid paying money. After weeks of discussion, both sides agreed to compromise. Under the treaty, Russia recognized Japan’s influence in Korea. Russia also gave up control of the southern half of Sakhalin Island to Japan. Sakhalin is an island north of Japan.

The treaty did not include payment of money from Russia to Japan. This caused disappointment in Japan, where many people expected more gains. In Russia, the treaty was accepted because it ended a difficult war. Even though neither side received everything it wanted, the treaty stopped the fighting and restored peace. The agreement was signed on September 5, 1905.

The Treaty of Portsmouth had lasting effects. It confirmed Japan as a major power in East Asia. It also reduced Russia’s influence in the region. President Theodore Roosevelt later received international recognition for helping arrange the peace. The treaty is remembered as an important example of diplomacy, which means using discussion and agreement instead of war to solve conflicts.