Caring for the Wounded

Despite the ferocious battles and the animosities such fighting might arouse between the two forces, reporters observed the relatively humane treatment afforded the Russian wounded and captured soldiers by the Japanese. Proper medical care was extended to all the wounded Russians. During the negotiations, one of the points made by the Japanese concerned the great expense incurred caring for the more than 100,000 Russian prisoners.

Propaganda

While the fierce fighting continued in Manchuria, both the Russians and Japanese attempted to rally support for their cause on the home front. Each side used newspaper articles and illustrations to promote their successes. Especially effective were hundreds of Japanese wood block prints that depicted war scenes and, in particular, various aspects of battles.

While these prints tend to glorify Japanese actions, some pay tribute to the courage of the Russians.

An exhibit of Japanese and Russian war prints is on display at the Portsmouth (N.H.) Athenaeum during the summer of 2005.