Consular letter about the policies of the interim vice-governor

This official diplomatic dispatch, dated 3 August 1900, was issued by the Portuguese Consulate in Canton (Guangzhou) and addressed to the Minister and Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in Lisbon. The document, numbered 9 to 144, reports on the political and social conditions in Canton during a...

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Bibliographic Details
Format: Documents
Language:Portuguese
Published: Agosto 1900
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Online Access:https://macau-legacy.usj.edu.mo/docs/ZTEIP7GU/viewer_ZTEIP7GU.html
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Summary:This official diplomatic dispatch, dated 3 August 1900, was issued by the Portuguese Consulate in Canton (Guangzhou) and addressed to the Minister and Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in Lisbon. The document, numbered 9 to 144, reports on the political and social conditions in Canton during a period of regional instability linked to the Boxer Rebellion in northern China. The acting Viceroy of Canton, described as lacking confidence among foreign representatives, is noted to have maintained strict measures instituted by his predecessor, Li Hung Chang, contributing to a surface calm in the port. The consul observes that while public order remains stable and the city appears tranquil, the durability of this situation is uncertain. Reference is made to a previous communication (No. 81) sent to the Portuguese Legation, which detailed assurances from the acting Viceroy regarding the protection of foreigners and the containment of hostilities to northern China. The dispatch includes excerpts from telegraphic exchanges confirming the absence of immediate disturbances and affirming the Viceroy’s commitment to maintaining public order. The document provides insight into foreign diplomatic perceptions of Qing provincial authority during a critical moment in late Qing history, reflecting concerns over security, foreign relations, and internal stability in southern China amid broader national crisis.