What was the result of the Treaty of Shimonoseki in 1895?

• A. It ceded Taiwan to Japan
• B. It ended the Opium War
• C. It marked the end of World War II
• D. It initiated the Boxer Rebellion

Answer: (A)

The Treaty of Shimonoseki, signed in 1895, marked a significant shift in the power dynamics of East Asia following the First Sino-Japanese War. One of the primary outcomes of this treaty was the cession of Taiwan from China to Japan, which solidified Japan's status as a rising imperial power and reflected the weakening of Qing China. This territorial transfer not only expanded Japan’s territorial holdings but also showcased the decline of Chinese influence in the region.

The treaty also included various other provisions, such as recognition of Korea's independence, which further affected the geopolitical landscape of East Asia in the following years. Understanding this treaty helps highlight the roots of Japanese imperialism and China's struggles during this period of transition. The other options mention events or treaties that are not directly related to the Treaty of Shimonoseki, such as the Opium War, World War II, or the Boxer Rebellion, which occurred in different historical contexts.