DescriptionGriffis begins by explaining Korea’s long history of diplomatic marriages and treaties. These agreements ostensibly placed Korea within a growing union of sovereign nations, however it is clear that Korea was economically unprepared for this transition. With open borders and open influence, Korea began to unsuccessfully adopt a number of economic and political systems from the West and from Japan and China. This open influence led to unrest among the Korean people, as allegiances began to be formed. In particular, Pro-Chinese and Pro-Japanese sentiment lead to a long period of war and peace. Griffis concludes by describing the political marriage of the Korean “Prince Heir” and Princess Masako of Japan. This ceremonial Japanese wedding, a preparatory step before annexation, had the potential to unite the bride and groom as a symbolic union of Korea and Japan.
NoteThis project was assisted by a grant from the Overseas Korean Cultural Heritage Foundation, Seoul, Korea.
Note8-page typed manuscript written just before the wedding of the Korean Prince Heir and Princess Masako of Japan (1920)
Name: Inventory to the William Elliot Griffis Collection (East Asia), 1859-1928
Detail: The items in this record are part of the William Elliot Griffis Collection. A finding aid with information about the contents of the collection is available online.
CollectionKorea letters and manuscripts in the William Elliot Griffis collection
Organization NameRutgers University. Libraries. Special Collections and University Archives
RightsThe organization that has made the Item available reasonably believes that the Item is not restricted by copyright or related rights, but a conclusive determination could not be made. Please refer to the organization that has made the Item available for more information. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use.