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Edward St John Neale
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Edward St John Neale
EDWARD ST JOHN NEALE Soldier and diplomat, British charge d affaires in Japan, 1864. Date: ? - 1866
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Media ID 14099077
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1864 1866 Affaires Charge Diplomat Neale
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "Edward St John Neale: Soldier and Diplomat Extraordinaire in Meiji Japan" Edward St John Neale, an enigmatic figure in British diplomatic history, is depicted in this striking photograph taken during his tenure as British Charge d'Affaires in Japan from 1864 to 1866. Neale's presence in Japan came at a pivotal moment in the country's modern history, as it was opening its doors to the outside world after centuries of self-imposed isolation. Born in Ireland in 1822, Neale joined the British Army at a young age and served in various capacities, including in India and China. His diplomatic career began in earnest when he was appointed as British Minister Resident in Siam (Thailand) in 1855. Neale's fluency in several Eastern languages and his keen understanding of Eastern cultures made him an ideal candidate for representing British interests in Japan during a time of great change. Upon his arrival in Japan, Neale faced numerous challenges, including language barriers, cultural differences, and political instability. He quickly established a rapport with the Japanese authorities, particularly with the powerful samurai warlord, Shimadzu Nariaki of Satsuma Domain. Neale's diplomatic finesse and his ability to navigate the complex web of Japanese politics helped pave the way for the signing of the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between Britain and Japan in 1866. This photograph captures Neale in the prime of his career, dressed in the formal attire of a British diplomat, with a stern yet resolute expression on his face. The backdrop of traditional Japanese landscaping and architecture underscores the cultural juxtaposition of the time. Neale's tenure in Japan marked the beginning of a new era of diplomatic relations between the two nations, and his legacy continues to be celebrated in both Britain and Japan as a testament to the power of diplomacy in shaping international relations.
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