After the end of World War I (1919), Russia had signed a number of unequal treaties with China, forcing the latter to lease concessions and to give her benefits in many other means. In 1901, Russia wanted to take over of the 3 provinces in North-east China with Japan's help. After the signing of the Treaty of Shimonosuki to settle the aftermath of China, the eight powers having invaded China before had left the Chinese soil, except Russia. When the Czar of Russia tried to put the 3 provinces under its control in 1903, the Chinese people were irritated and they joined the Anti-Russia Movement.