Why Was the Open Door Policy Created With China?
The Open Door Policy with China was part of a United States diplomatic attempt to ensure that China remain accessible at all times to outside commerce with all nations, free of restrictions. The diplomatic aspect of this policy was to ensure that the Chinese government remain in control and not let the foreign powers present in China dictate economic policies.
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Time Frame
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The late 1800s were a time of imperialism when powerful countries looked for regions of the world where there were available resources. These countries also considered regions for the marketing of goods produced in their countries. This was the time of the industrial revolution. Toward the end of the 1800s China had experienced political conflict, war and economic difficulties. This is the setting under which the foreign nations worked to set up trade.
Historical Setting
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The foreign powers involved in China were France, Germany, Great Britain, Japan and Russia. Each was striving for what is referred to as a sphere of influence. These were geographic areas where each would be dominant. In addition, these countries wanted exemption from the legal jurisdiction of China. By having this, each nation would not be held responsible for breaking Chinese law. Another aspect concerned the discussions by these nations of dividing China up into to regions for colonization, in a way similar to what had been done in Africa.
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Diplomacy Setting
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The United States foreign policy under President McKinley included maintaining market accessibility to China. It was thought that the foreign influences in China would set up restrictions that would not be fair even to the point of China being closed to free trade. Secretary of State John Hay presented the Open Door Policy in 1899.
Open Door Policy
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The Open Door Policy didn't question the foreign countries' spheres of influence in China and didn't require that American involvement be equal. It put forth the concept that there be equality when it came to the market within the foreign spheres of influence. The expectation was equal billing for fees, such as use of the rail system and port costs. It also indicated that the Chinese government should be the actual agent concerning any fees. The Open Door Policy was to assure open access to all who wanted to trade with China.
Significance
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The United States in the late 1800s was an industrial country but not considered a world power. The Open Door Policy notes sent out by Secretary of State John Hay did not have an impact.
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- Photo Credit Carte Chine Camaieu Bleu image by Aimohy from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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Helped my social studies homework haha.
