“The Peacemaker and the Plenipotentiaries” is a historic photograph from 1905 depicting U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt with representatives from Russia and Japan during peace negotiations to end the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905). The war, fought over territorial disputes in East Asia, saw Japan achieve several decisive victories, prompting both nations to seek a peaceful resolution. The peace talks took place in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in August 1905, with Roosevelt acting as the mediator. His efforts were crucial in facilitating the negotiations, which led to the signing of the Treaty of Portsmouth on September 5, 1905. The treaty required Russia to recognize Japan’s interests in Korea and cede control of the Liaodong Peninsula and the southern half of Sakhalin Island to Japan. In the photograph, Roosevelt stands in the center, flanked by the chief negotiators: Sergei Witte for Russia and Baron Komura Jutaro for Japan. This image symbolizes Roosevelt’s pivotal role in brokering peace, a diplomatic achievement that earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1906, making him the first American to receive this honor. The Portsmouth Peace Conference and the resulting treaty are early examples of successful international mediation, highlighting Roosevelt’s influence in global diplomacy. His involvement not only ended a devastating conflict but also established the United States as an emerging power in international relations. The photograph remains a significant historical artifact, representing a moment of effective diplomacy and Roosevelt’s dedication to promoting peace. It underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts in resolving conflicts and the enduring impact of Roosevelt’s leadership on international affairs.