The significance of the Sino-Japanese War from 1894 to 1895 lies in its impact on regional power dynamics and the emergence of Japan as a major world power. The conflict began over control of Korea and resulted in a decisive victory for Japan. This war marked Japan's first major military engagement against a Western power, showcasing its modernization and military capabilities following the Meiji Restoration. The Treaty of Shimonoseki, which concluded the conflict, forced China to recognize Korean independence and ceded Taiwan to Japan, significantly altering the balance of power in East Asia and setting the stage for future conflicts in the region.