Solving the Oneida Question: Anglo-American relations during a public outcry

Abstract

On 24 January 1870 USS Oneida sank when, sailing out of Tokyo Bay, it collided with the British ship Bombay, which failed to stop and render aid, leading to the deaths of 115 American sailors. This article compares the public reaction of the Anglo-American press with the internal conversations in both nations’ governments. It will demonstrate how, despite intense public condemnation of the British captain, both countries were keen to put the issue to rest in as quiet and amicable a manner as possible. The goal of presenting a united front to the new Meiji government was essential during a new era of imperial co-operation.