China
Many imperialistic European powers had moved into China, tearing away at valuable leaseholds and economic spheres of influence from the Manchu government. Americans were alarmed by this. Churches worried about their missionary strongholds. Merchants feared that Europeans would monopolize Chinese Markets. Americans demanded that Washington do something. Secretary of State John Hay dispatched to all powers the Open Door note. He urged them to announce that in their leaseholds or spheres of influence that they would respect certain Chinese rights and the ideal of fair competition. Hay, however, did not consult with the Chinese himself.
The cartoon shows the door of China being opened by Hay. Other European powers are already behind the door, but Hay is now opening up that door to America as well. Basically, with the Open Door Policy, China was opened to American influence as well.
The cartoon shows the door of China being opened by Hay. Other European powers are already behind the door, but Hay is now opening up that door to America as well. Basically, with the Open Door Policy, China was opened to American influence as well.