Boxer Rebellion in China in Russian Satiric Press in the Beginning of 20th Century

Abstract

The expansion of territorial claims from Japan and Western states toward China in late 1890-s led to growth of dissatisfaction among the population of China. One of the most significant demonstrations of that dissatisfaction was the Boxer rebellion in 1898–1901. This rebellion also became one of the key events in Sino- Russian relations of late 19th — early 20th century. It didn’t only influence the relations between the two nations, but also had long-term impact on International relations in the Far East for years. In Russian historiography, same as in Chinese, it is known as “Yihetuan rebellion”. Today, the history of Russian Empire’s participation in suppression of Boxer uprising is very well studied. At the same time, in the rebellion itself, as long as Russia’s participation in fighting with the Boxers was evaluated differently by Russian authors depending on time of publication. However, there’s still a significant layer of historical sources which is out of focus of scholars, but can give us new perspective on the events well-known. These are Russian periodicals of late 19th — early 20th century, in particular, satiric political press. Beginning with late 1890-s China was frequently mentioned on pages of Russian satiric magazines, most popular of which were “Strekoza” (“Dragonfly”) and “Budil’nik” (“Alarm clock”). Cartoon images of China and the Chinese published in these magazines had great influence on the development of the image of eastern neighbor in Russian society. The cartoons were also comprehensible for different kinds of readers. The Boxer rebellion and the participation of Russia’s military forces in its suppression was among the most popular topics for Russian satiric press of that period.