Shidehara Kijūrō was a prominent Japanese diplomat and politician, known for his role in shaping Japan's foreign policy during the early 20th century. Born in 1872, he served as Japan's Minister of Foreign Affairs and later as Prime Minister. His tenure was marked by efforts to promote international cooperation and peace, particularly during the tumultuous years following World War I. Shidehara is best remembered for the Shidehara Diplomacy, which emphasized negotiation and diplomacy over military aggression. He played a significant role in the signing of the Washington Naval Treaty in 1922, which aimed to limit naval armaments among major powers and reduce tensions in the Pacific region.