The study investigates Shanghai's transformation in a relatively short period of time, from a modest trading port into China’s preeminent financial centre. The arrival of foreign powers and the Treaty of Nanjing enabled the establishment of the Foreign Concessions, which played a crucial role in shaping the city. This thesis examines the administrative structures and strategies used by foreign powers for territorial expansion and how they managed to gain control over these areas in China. These developments had significant consequences for demographics, architecture, and the economy. The foreign-controlled areas provided better infrastructure, legal systems, and business opportunities, attracting many people. However, their dominance also created social inequalities and tensions between Chinese residents and foreigners. Despite these issues, the combination of foreign influence, economic growth, and urban development ultimately laid a strong foundation that allowed Shanghai to remain China’s most important financial center.
|
