Japan's first major naval engagement between two…

Japan's first major naval engagement between two modern navies, the Naval Battle of Hakodate Bay, occurs towards the end of the Boihin War, during the month of May 1869.

Before the final surrender, in May 1869, the Ezo Republic French military advisors escape to a French Navy warship stationed in Hakodate Bay, the Coëtlogon, whence they return to Yokohama and thence to France.

After having lost close to half their numbers and most of their ships, the military of the Ezo Republic surrenders to the Meiji government on May 17, 1869.

The battle marks the end of the old feudal regime in Japan, and the end of armed resistance to the Meiji restoration.

After a few years in prison, several of the leaders of the rebellion will be rehabilitated, and will continue with brilliant political careers in the new unified Japan: Enomoto Takeaki in particular will assume various ministry functions during the Meiji era.