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RMS Empress of Japan - Armed Merchant Cruiser
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RMS Empress of Japan - Armed Merchant Cruiser
HMS Empress of Japan - Armed Merchant Cruiser, pictured near Hong Kong Harbour. Built circa 1891 for the Canadian Pacific Line as RMS Empress of Japan, converted for War Service (circa 1914-15) and arrived at
Hong Kong in September 1915.
1915
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Media ID 14408622
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the RMS Empress of Japan, an Armed Merchant Cruiser (AMC), anchored near Hong Kong Harbour during the First World War. Originally built for the Canadian Pacific Line in 1891 as a passenger steamship named RMS Empress of Japan, this vessel underwent a significant transformation for war service around 1914-15. During this period, the Empress of Japan was fitted with armaments, including guns and torpedo tubes, to serve as a formidable weapon in the British Royal Navy's arsenal. The conversion allowed the ship to protect Allied merchant convoys from enemy attacks, making it an essential asset during the conflict. The photograph, taken in 1915, showcases the Empress of Japan's impressive size and distinctive features. The ship's tall funnels, billowing with smoke, stand proudly against the backdrop of the harbor, while the masts and rigging add to its classic steamboat appearance. The image also highlights the naval prowess of the era, with the Empress of Japan's military capabilities on full display. The Empress of Japan's journey to Hong Kong marked the beginning of its new role in the war effort. This photograph is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of steamships during the First World War, as they were repurposed from commercial vessels to vital military transport and escort ships.
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