For many years the Japanese had been envious of the concessions held by the Western Powers in China. Now, with most of these powers embroiled in Europe, Japan saw her chance. She presented China witha list of 21 Demands, and although the Allies and the United States protested, they made no offer of military aid to the Chinese, who therefore had to capitulate.

This article is located in the History of the First World War Volume 3 (REF D522 .H58 1969 V.3).