The article discusses the history of Dalian, China from 1898 to 1950, noting the imperial control of the port city by Russia, Japan, and China. Topics include the strategic value of Dalian as a gateway city for Manchuria, ethnic relations between Chinese and Japanese residents, and social conditions for working class residents. Also addressed are the city's role in supporting the Japanese puppet state of Manchukuo, the industrialization of the city, and the Soviet military occupation of Dalian after World War II.