Japanese and Russian soldiers, 1900

Photograph, 3rd China War (Boxer Rebellion) (1900-1901).

The Boxer Rebellion, or Third China War (1900), was an uprising against foreigners, Christian missionaries and Chinese Christian converts in Northern China. Although started by peasants, it was eventually supported by the Imperial Chinese government. There was widespread anger at growing economic hardship and the humiliating trade and political concessions that had been granted to several Western powers.

A Chinese secret society known as the Yihetuan (Righteous and Harmonious Fists), nicknamed the Boxers by westerners, embarked on an armed campaign to drive all foreigners from China.

In June 1900, the growing violence forced foreign diplomats, missionaries, soldiers and Chinese Christians to take refuge in the Legation Quarter of the capital, Beijing, and issue a call for international help.

An eight-nation alliance, including Japan and Russia, quickly despatched a 20,000-strong international force to relieve their legations in Beijing. It was commanded by Lieutenant-General Sir Alfred Gaselee, a British officer of the Indian Army.