Port Arthur 1904–05: The First Modern Siege

The Battle of Port Arthur, which occurred during the Russo-Japanese War in 1904-05, was the longest and most brutal land battle of the war. Imperial Russia and Imperial Japan fought for control over territorial control in China and Korea. Japan struck the first blow with a surprise naval attack against the anchored Russian Pacific Fleet at its base in Port Arthur. The Japanese landed their Second Army on the Liaotung Peninsula in May 1904 and besieged Port Arthur. The fighting that followed has become legend in military history, and this book provides a detailed account of the battle, including the Russian relief operation towards Port Arthur, the lengthy siege of the Russian-held town and harbor, and the Japanese progress through the heavily fortified lines protecting Port Arthur. Specially commissioned artworks bring to life the Battle of Nanshan Hill, the Japanese assault on the Wantai Heights, and the bombardments of the Russian forts. Maps and diagrams explore the strategic situation and tactical progress of the fighting in step-by-step detail, and over 60 period photographs reveal the appearance and weaponry of the opposing forces and the terrain around Port Arthur.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Russo-Japanese War, which lasted from 1904 to 1905, saw one of its longest and most brutal land battles. Tensions between Imperial Russia and Imperial Japan over territorial control in China and Korea escalated, leading to the outbreak of war in February 1904. Japan struck the first blow with a surprise naval attack against the anchored Russian Pacific Fleet at its base in Port Arthur. Following the neutralization of the fleet, the Japanese landed their Second Army on the Liaotung Peninsula in May 1904, with the aim of besieging Port Arthur. The ensuing battle, which has become a legendary feat in military history, is vividly depicted in this book.

Respected military historian Robert Forczyk delves into the Russian relief operation towards Port Arthur, known as the Battle of Telissu. He provides detailed accounts of the lengthy siege of the Russian-held town and harbor, highlighting the initial Japanese attempts to capture the port by assault. The book also showcases the Japanese progress through the heavily fortified lines protecting Port Arthur, showcasing the bravery and determination of the Japanese forces.

Specially commissioned artworks bring the Battle of Nanshan Hill, the Japanese assault on the Wantai Heights, and the bombardments of the Russian forts to life in vivid detail. Maps and diagrams provide a step-by-step exploration of the strategic situation and tactical progress of the fighting, while over 60 period photographs offer a glimpse into the appearance and weaponry of the opposing forces and the terrain around Port Arthur.

This comprehensive book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in military history, particularly the Russo-Japanese War. It provides a detailed account of one of the most significant battles of the era, offering a deeper understanding of the strategies, tactics, and sacrifices made by both sides.

Weight: 310g
Dimension: 184 x 248 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472855633