French Concession

Definition

The French Concession refers to an area in Shanghai, China, that was ceded to France during the period of imperialism, where French law and governance were implemented. This concession became a significant symbol of foreign control and exploitation in China during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, embodying the broader trends of imperial expansion and the imposition of foreign powers on local societies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The French Concession was established in 1849 and was one of several foreign-controlled areas in Shanghai, alongside the British Concession.
2. It served as a hub for French culture and commerce, influencing the architecture and lifestyle within its boundaries.
3. The Concession had its own municipal government that operated under French law, allowing for a degree of autonomy from Chinese authorities.
4. During the Japanese occupation of Shanghai in World War II, the status of the French Concession changed, as Japanese forces took control.
5. The French Concession eventually returned to Chinese sovereignty after the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the French Concession illustrate the dynamics of imperialism in China during the 19th century?
  • The establishment of the French Concession exemplified how imperialist powers carved out specific territories in China for their own governance and benefit. By creating a separate legal framework and administrative system within Shanghai, France showcased its ability to exert influence over Chinese sovereignty. This concession served as a physical representation of Western dominance and exploitation, highlighting the unequal power dynamics present during this era.
• In what ways did the French Concession contribute to cultural exchange between France and China?
  • The French Concession became a center for cultural exchange where French customs, language, and art blended with Chinese traditions. This area saw the construction of French-style buildings and institutions that attracted both expatriates and locals. It also facilitated interactions through schools, cafes, and cultural events, fostering a unique environment that influenced Shanghai's development as a cosmopolitan city during the imperialist period.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of foreign concessions like the French Concession on China's national identity and its response to imperialism.
  • The existence of foreign concessions like the French Concession had profound long-term effects on China's national identity by instilling a sense of humiliation and resentment towards foreign powers. As these areas operated under foreign laws with little regard for Chinese sovereignty, they fueled nationalist sentiments that ultimately contributed to movements aiming for reform and independence. The legacy of these concessions can be seen in China's contemporary approach to foreign relations, as it strives to assert its sovereignty while navigating historical grievances related to imperialism.

Related terms

Treaty of Nanking: An 1842 treaty that ended the First Opium War, which ceded Hong Kong to Britain and established several treaty ports in China, marking the beginning of extensive foreign influence.

Spheres of Influence: Regions in which foreign powers have exclusive rights and privileges, such as trade and investment, without formal political control over the territory.

Opium Wars:

Two conflicts (1839-1842 and 1856-1860) between China and Western powers, primarily Britain, that resulted in significant territorial concessions and the opening of China to foreign trade.