Anti-foreign sentiment

Definition

Anti-foreign sentiment refers to the widespread feelings of hostility and resentment towards foreign powers and their influence, particularly in the context of imperialism and colonialism. This sentiment emerged in China during the 19th century as a reaction to foreign encroachments, unequal treaties, and exploitation, particularly after events like the Opium Wars. It was a significant factor in shaping social and political movements aimed at resisting foreign domination and asserting national sovereignty.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Second Opium War (1856-1860) intensified anti-foreign sentiment in China, as it resulted in further humiliating defeats and impositions from Western powers.
2. The Treaty of Tianjin (1856) and other unequal treaties established foreign privileges that fueled resentment among the Chinese populace, as they were perceived as infringements on national sovereignty.
3. Anti-foreign sentiment manifested itself in various forms, including protests, riots, and ultimately organized uprisings like the Boxer Rebellion.
4. This sentiment not only influenced domestic policies but also played a key role in the emergence of nationalist movements that sought to modernize China while rejecting foreign intervention.
5. Long-term effects of this sentiment included a stronger push for reform and revolution, culminating in events like the 1911 Revolution which ultimately led to the fall of the Qing Dynasty.

Review Questions

• How did the Second Opium War contribute to the rise of anti-foreign sentiment in China?
  • The Second Opium War led to significant military defeats for China, resulting in further unequal treaties that granted more privileges to foreign powers. This series of humiliations not only incited anger among the Chinese people but also fostered a collective identity against foreign exploitation. The war exposed the weaknesses of the Qing dynasty, prompting many to rally against foreign influence as a way to restore national pride.
• Analyze the impact of the Treaty of Tianjin on China's internal dynamics regarding anti-foreign sentiment.
  • The Treaty of Tianjin expanded foreign access and rights within China, including legalized opium trade and more ports opened for foreign commerce. This deepened resentment among the Chinese population who felt their sovereignty was being eroded. The treaty's stipulations led to increased tensions between local populations and foreigners, which would later erupt into violent confrontations like the Boxer Rebellion, demonstrating how such treaties galvanized public discontent.
• Evaluate how anti-foreign sentiment shaped China's transition from imperial rule to modern statehood in the early 20th century.
  • Anti-foreign sentiment played a crucial role in mobilizing nationalist movements that challenged imperial rule. As dissatisfaction grew over foreign interventions and their consequences on Chinese society, intellectuals and reformers began advocating for modernization efforts that emphasized national sovereignty. This culminated in revolutionary movements leading to the 1911 Revolution, which marked the end of imperial rule and the establishment of a republic. The rejection of foreign dominance became central to China's quest for identity and self-determination in a rapidly changing world.

Related terms

Boxer Rebellion: An anti-foreign, anti-colonial uprising in China from 1899 to 1901, fueled by anti-foreign sentiment and aimed at expelling foreign influence and missionaries.

Unequal Treaties: Treaties imposed on China by foreign powers that favored the latter, significantly undermining China's sovereignty and contributing to the rise of anti-foreign feelings.

Self-Strengthening Movement: A late 19th-century movement in China focused on modernization and reform while maintaining Confucian values, partly as a response to rising anti-foreign sentiment.