F4%20CS%20Topic%201.pdf

1. Topic Overview

  • Citizenship and Social Development: "One Country, Two Systems"

2. Learning Objectives

2.1 Knowledge

  • Understand the origins of the Hong Kong question.

  • Learn the process of Hong Kong’s return to China.

2.2 Skills

  • Develop clear argumentation.

  • Viewpoints should be expressed objectively and empathetically with factual basis.

2.3 Attitudes and Values

  • Foster a sense of identity and belonging to the Chinese nation.

3. Historical Context

3.1 The Origin of the Question of Hong Kong

  • Unequal Treaties: Refers to the treaties signed under duress by the Qing Government with Western powers.

    • Treaty of Nanking: 1842, ceded Hong Kong Island to Britain.

    • Convention of Peking: 1860, ceded Kowloon Peninsula.

    • Convention for the Extension of Hong Kong Territory: 1898, leased the New Territories.

  • Impact of British Occupation: Military forces and aggression facilitated the ceding of territory.

3.2 Process of Return to China

  • Historical Claims: Hong Kong has always been a part of China's territory.

  • Key Dates:

    • 1984: Sino-British Joint Declaration signed, setting the stage for the return on July 1, 1997.

    • 1997: Official return of Hong Kong to China as a Special Administrative Region (SAR).

4. Significance of the Process

4.1 Establishing the SAR

  • Basic Law: Guarantees the implementation of "One Country, Two Systems", allowing for a high degree of autonomy.

4.2 Global Implications

  • Sets a precedent for resolving historical conflicts through negotiation rather than military action.

5. Principles of "One Country, Two Systems"

5.1 Definition

  • Hong Kong maintains its capitalist system while the mainland adheres to socialism.

5.2 Legal Framework

  • Constitution: Provides foundation for special administrative regions like Hong Kong.

  • Sino-British Joint Declaration: Ensured the peaceful transition of governance.

6. Socio-Economic Effects After Handover

6.1 Maintaining Stability

  • The Linked Exchange Rate System has preserved economic confidence.

6.2 Protection of Rights

  • Continued respect for Hong Kong’s way of life and legal systems under Basic Law.

7. Conclusion

7.1 Importance of Unity

  • The return of Hong Kong exemplifies China's commitment to national sovereignty and unity while allowing for local governance.

7.2 Future Outlook

  • Ongoing challenges and convergence of interests between Hong Kong and Mainland China continue to shape the region’s future.