"In 1899, Secretary of State John Hay issued a statement addressing the U.S. policy toward China. The U.S. sent notes to Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, and Russia to explain the Open Door Policy. The policy supported the principle that foreign countries have equal access to commercial and industrial trade rights in china and requested that no nation create a sphere of influence in china

Question

the replies from each country were evasive. they skrited the issue by taking the postion that they could not commit themeselves unless other nations complied first. hay concluded that the evasivness meant that each was willing to comply with the policy. econmic tensions were high. countries continued to compete for railroad and mining rights and foreign tradfe within china. subsequent events lead to the failure of the open door principle
A. what was the main purpose of john hays statement reagrding the u.s.s policy toward china in 1899
b. why do you think that having equal access to trading with china would be important for the us

Answer 1

A. The main purpose of John Hay's statement regarding the U.S. policy toward China in 1899 was to articulate and promote the Open Door Policy, which aimed to ensure that all foreign powers had equal access to trade and commerce with China. This policy was designed to prevent any single nation from monopolizing trade rights or establishing spheres of influence in China, which would restrict access for other countries, including the U.S. Hay's statement sought to protect American commercial interests in China and to maintain a competitive but equitable environment for trade among all foreign powers.

B. Having equal access to trading with China would be important for the U.S. for several reasons. Firstly, China represented a vast market with significant potential for American goods, which could boost U.S. exports and economic growth. Secondly, access to Chinese markets allowed the U.S. to compete with other nations that were already vying for influence and trade rights in the region, thus ensuring that American businesses would not be at a disadvantage. Moreover, equal access would help prevent any one nation from dominating trade in China, fostering a more level playing field that would benefit American investors and businesses. Lastly, gaining a foothold in the Chinese market was also seen as strategically important, as it could enhance the U.S.'s standing as a global power during a time of increasing imperialism and competition among Western nations.