Browse Exhibits (1 total)

Japan’s International Relations during WWII

During World War II, Japan’s international relations were shaped by its strategic goals and shifting alliances. Japan forged alliances with Germany and Italy, and seeked to expand its influence across Asia and the Pacific. At the same time, Japan had to navigate complex diplomatic waters, managing relationships with other countries to avoid unnecessary conflicts. Using items from collection RG457, this exhibit showcases the relations between Japan and other countries during the war. 

Russo-Japanese Relations during WWII

During World War II, Russo-Japanese relations were characterized by a cautious but largely cooperative neutrality, despite the broader conflict involving their respective allies. The Soviet Union and Japan maintained a pragmatic relationship underpinned by the Soviet-Japanese Neutrality Pact of 1941, which allowed both nations to avoid direct conflict. Specific details regarding their relations can be found here (Russo-Japanese Relations July 1945) which include information on Japan's need for oil from USSR and concern about China diplomatic activities, the San Francisco conference, China\Russia diplomatic maneuverings over Outer Mongolia, and Manchukuo (Manchuria). Additional information regarding their relation can also be found in the document Relations between Russia and Japan, documenting the countries relations during the war. 

Sino-Soviet Relations during WWII

Sino-Soviet relations during World War II were initially marked by cooperation as both nations opposed the Axis Powers, though their alliance was complex and fraught with tension. The Soviet Union provided some support to China, which was engaged in a protracted struggle against Japanese invasion. This Sino-Soviet Relations document describes Soviet Russia's plans and intentions for territorial expansion and/or political control in Asia and intentions for political control within the Chinese government. 

Soviet-Japanese Neutrality Pact

The Soviet-Japanese Neutrality Pact, signed in April 1941, was a crucial diplomatic agreement that shaped the interactions between the Soviet Union and Japan during World War II. This pact ensured that the two powers would not engage in military conflict against each other, allowing Japan to focus its efforts on other fronts, notably in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. 

Japanese-Portuguese Relations and the Macao Problem

During World War II, Japanese-Portuguese relations were complicated by the strategic significance of Macao, a Portuguese-controlled territory in China. Japan's interest in Macao posed a challenge for Portuguese neutrality and led to diplomatic tensions over the status of this enclave. This source (Japanese-Portuguese Relations and the "Macao Problem") describes a report on recent events in Macao and its effects on Japanese-Portuguese relations. 

Japanese-Thailand Relations during WWII

Japan's relationship with Thailand during World War II was marked by collaboration and mutual benefit as Thailand aligned with Japan to advance its strategic and territorial goals. Thailand, under the leadership of Prime Minister Phibun Songkram, officially joined the Axis Powers and supported Japanese military operations in Southeast Asia. With the rising disapproval of Songkram and a highly organized propoganda program, Japan implemented measures to ignite a "pro-Japanese feeling in Thailand" as described in The Politics of Thailand, successfully integrating themselves into the politics of Thailand. 

Yalta Conference

The Yalta Conference, held in February 1945, was a pivotal event where Allied leaders Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin met to discuss the post-war world, including plans for dealing with Japan. The conference marked a significant point in shaping the final stages of the war and the future of Asia. These Notes on the Crimea (Yalta) Conference provides context into the Yalta Conference.