Open Door Policy

Open Door Policy

A diplomatic policy that sought to ensure all nations had equal trading rights in China.

John Hay

The U.S. Secretary of State who issued the first 'Open Door Note' in 1899.

Kiaochao

A port in China leased to Germany, significant in the context of the Open Door Policy.

Spheres of influence

Regions in China where foreign powers had exclusive trading rights and privileges.

McKinley Administration

The U.S. government led by President William McKinley, which pursued expansionist policies.

March 20, 1900

The date when John Hay announced the acceptance of the Open Door Note by major powers.

Economic spheres of interest

Areas over which foreign nations sought control for trade and economic benefits.

Equality of treatment

The principle that sought to ensure all nations could trade on equal terms within China.

Imperial Germany

The German Empire, which had significant influence in China's dealings during this period.

Chinese treaty tariff

The system of duties that was to apply equally to all goods being traded in China.

Ports

Locations where ships dock to load and unload cargo, pivotal in trade discussions.

Harbor dues

Fees charged for ships docking at ports, proposed to be equal among nations.

Railroads

Critical infrastructure for trade and transportation, often a point of contention among powers.

Mining enterprises

Business ventures focused on extracting natural resources, significant to economic interests.

Chinese Government

The administrative authority in China, responsible for enforcing trade agreements.

Exclusive rights

Permissions given to a nation to control trade in a specific region, limiting others.

Contiguous territory

Lands that are adjacent or connected to a leased area, relevant in trade agreements.

Commercial equality

The concept that all nations should have equal rights in trade, central to Open Door Policy.

Disputes

Conflicts that may arise from differing interpretations of treaties and agreements.

Foreign powers

Nations outside of China that engaged in trade and economic interests within the country.

Treaties

Formal agreements between nations, outlining rights and obligations related to trade.

Ambassador

An official representative of a country, involved in negotiations and communications.

Leased territory

Areas within a country that are rented or managed by a foreign power for specific purposes.

October 2023

The latest date of information relevant to the material covered in the notes.

Disruptions

Interferences that may jeopardize trade agreements and economic activities.

Benefits of equality

Advantages gained from ensuring all traders receive fair treatment in their operations.

Primary motive

The main reason or driving force behind the implementation of the Open Door Policy.

American control

The influence and governance the U.S. sought to establish in international affairs, notably in Asia.