The First Open Door Note: Key Points and Analysis

The First "Open Door" Note by John Hay to Andrew D. White, September 6, 1899

Introduction

  • Source: United States Department of State, Papers Relating to Foreign Affairs, 1899, pp. 129–130.
  • Link to source: Open Door Note Source

Context

  • The United States was informed by Germany of its lease of the port of Kiao-chao and surrounding territory in Shantung.
  • Assurances were given by Germany's Imperial Minister for Foreign Affairs to the U.S. ambassador in Berlin that the rights of U.S. citizens according to treaties with China would not be impaired by this lease.

Conflict of Interests

  • Recent Developments: The British Government formalized an agreement with Germany, granting exclusive rights to Germany in the leased area, especially concerning railroads and mining.
  • Potential Issues: The undefined nature of these rights raises concerns for conflicts between British and German interests, potentially jeopardizing U.S. citizens' interests in the area.

Objectives of the U.S. Government

  • To prevent any source of irritation among international powers.
  • To ensure equitable commerce and navigation benefits for all nations in China.

Proposal for Cooperation

  • Requests to Germany: The U.S. Government sought formal assurances from Germany and cooperation from other powers to ensure:
    • Non-interference: Each power must not interfere with any treaty ports or vested interests within its own sphere or leased territory in China.
    • Tariff Application: The Chinese treaty tariff at the time must apply to all merchandise at any ports within these spheres (unless declared free ports).
    • Duties must be collected by the Chinese Government.
    • Harbor Dues and Railroad Charges: No higher harbor dues will be charged to vessels of other nationalities than those charged to native vessels.
    • No higher railroad charges for merchandise of other countries than for native goods over equal distances.

Acknowledgment of Germany's Efforts

  • Recognition of Germany's liberal policies, including:
    • Declaring Kiao-chao a free port.
    • Aiding China in establishing a customhouse in Kiao-chao.
  • The U.S. government expresses hope for Germany's acceptance and support of these propositions.

Support from Russia

  • The case of Russia's open declaration of Ta-lien-wan port during its lease to all merchant ships of any nationality is highlighted.
  • Assurance from a Russian representative lends confidence to the success of the proposed measure.
  • The U.S. ambassador in St. Petersburg is instructed to submit the proposal to the Russian Government for consideration.

Anticipated Support from Other Powers

  • The commercial interests of Great Britain and Japan align with the U.S. objectives outlined in the proposal.
  • Expectation: Acceptance and cooperation from Great Britain and Japan for fostering measures ensuring equal treatment of foreign trade throughout China.

Additional Correspondence

  • A copy of the instructions sent to Mr. Tower is enclosed for confidential review.
  • A copy of instruction sent to Mr. Choate on this matter is also enclosed for reference.