Japan’s Fight For Freedom Vol II

Japan’s Fight for Freedom is an exhaustive three‑volume (this is Vol II) chronicle of the Russo‑Japanese War (1904‑1905), written by British journalist Herbert Wrigley Wilson and published between 1904 and 1906 Stretching over nearly 1,444 pages, this richly illustrated work—featuring photographs, sketches, battle maps, and a folding colored map—offers both a detailed military account and a compelling narrative on Japan’s transformation into a modern world power.

Wilson writes with clear admiration for Japan’s cause. Early on, he frames the conflict as one of “civilisation” versus “barbarism,” firmly placing Japan on the side of democratic values, national independence, and humanitarian conduct—even claiming, “the war has been carried on with exemplary kindness and humanity”.  This perspective reflects the prevailing British sentiment of the time, viewing Japan’s rise as emblematic of progress.

Readers are treated to vivid accounts of major engagements—from naval clashes like Chemulpo Bay and the siege of Port Arthur to key land battles in Manchuria such as the battles of Yalu and Nanshan. Wilson balances tactical descriptions, military statistics, and strategic analysis with personal anecdotes, capturing the devotion and discipline of the Japanese forces—soldiers who “enter the combat prepared to conquer or die”. This combination keeps the narrative both informative and emotionally resonant.

Hidden within its scholarly presentation, however, is Wilson’s overtly pro-Japanese—and decidedly anti-Russian—bias. He portrays Russia as backward and oppressing the war laws, citing alleged outrages by Cossack and Asiatic auxiliarie. A modern reader should note this slant: while useful for understanding contemporary Western viewpoints, it leans toward propagandistic tone rather than dispassionate historical analysis.

The layout and production of the volumes enhance the narrative’s impact. The use of on‑scene photographs, finely executed battle maps, and first‑hand sketches adds realism and immediacy, making the text engaging even for readers unfamiliar with military jargon. That said, the sheer bulk—more than 1,400 pages across three quarto editions—can be daunting, and somewhat slows the narrative pace.

In summary, Japan’s Fight for Freedom stands as both a monumental historical document and a product of its era. It’s a rich, visually compelling tribute to Japan’s wartime achievements, capturing national sacrifice, strategic ingenuity, and human drama. While the overt bias and the sheer size may deter some readers, for those seeking a primary‑source style account of the Russo‑Japanese War or the turn‑of‑the‑century Western view of Japan, Wilson’s work is invaluable. Its blend of narrative breadth, contemporary sentiment, and documentary detail makes it a classic in military and diplomatic historiography.