Imperialism is the policy of expanding national territory and influence. Throughout the nineteenth century Europe immersed itself in an embroiled colonial race that caused rivalries and friendships that were forever altering with every move. Central and eastern Asia was an area of particular interest to many European colonial powers. Change and confusion in Asia was a source of strife for the nations involved in the quest for the East. The dominant and potent nations of Europe would make allies and adversaries with one another over the recurring issues surrounding Asia and its rich trade. Europe wanted influence and trade from Asia, not the responsibility of absolute power, and each nation was willing to adapt and struggle to insure that they would be the one to achieve this goal. Conflicts occurring and treaties being signed in Europe influenced decisions regarding Asia. However, at the same time, events in Asia were affecting poignant choices and crucial events in Europe.
[...] As a result of their shared trepidation, Britain and Japan signed an alliance in 1902.[22] Britain and Japan recognized China and Korea's independence and should one go to war with another power, the other would remain neutral. However if Britain or Japan were to go to war against more than one power than the other would come to its aid with full forces. The Anglo-Japanese alliance was a turning point for Britain.[23] Britain had committed itself, on paper, to another power. [...]
[...] Under the revisions, Japan had to return Liaodong to Chinese hands[13]. Russia had calmed, at least slightly, her fears of Japanese strength in what was to be her playground. The outcome of the Sino-Japanese war and the involvement of Russia, Germany and France to each further their own goals, is a clear example of an Asian imperial issue reflecting European interests and politics. Increasing Japanese power and Japanese expansion into eastern Asia was beginning to become a cause for alarm for Russia. [...]
[...] Germany wanted to keep Europe enwrapped in Asia and Asian issues and thus, hopefully, prevent itself from becoming the next focus of interest for the greater powers[15]. Germany especially wanted Russia to remain a colonial presence in China to distract Russia, Germany's biggest treat and source of apprehension, from both German weaknesses and actions in Europe[16]. “When the cat is away, the mice shall and this was the attitude that Germany had towards Russian preoccupation with China. Russian absorption with China would also augment suspicion and wariness between Russia and Great Britain. [...]
[...] Imperial activity was caused by or a cause for change in Europe and it eventually led to the outbreak of the First World War. relations of all the great powers were profoundly influenced, directly or indirectly, by events in the Far East”.[30] The Opium Wars caused a change in British policy and a warming of relations between France and Britain. The Opium Wars also opened China to the powers of Europe to begin a 60-year struggle for the Far East. [...]
[...] This is a clear illustration of how imperial activity affected the balance of power in Europe and caused new conflicts among the nations of Europe. The Russo-Japanese War caused other shifts in the balance of power such as the creation of the Triple Entente. In 1905 Russia experienced a small revolution because no one within Russia wanted to be in the war. The revolution helped lead to Russia turning inwards and the creation of an elected parliament. In 1905, the Russians knew they were not going to win the colonial war with Japan, and began to look for friends[27]. [...]
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