Political Changes in Early 20th Century Hong Kong
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Questions and Answers

What role did the Governor play in the administrative system of Hong Kong during the early 20th century?

  • Head of the Colonial Secretariat
  • Leader of the Legislative Council
  • Commander-in-chief of the British Forces (correct)
  • Chair of the Executive Council (correct)
  • Which body was primarily responsible for discussing and examining policies with the Governor?

  • Legislative Council
  • Colonial Secretariat
  • Executive Council (correct)
  • Administrative Court
  • Who were the unofficial members of the Executive Council in Hong Kong's government structure?

  • Social elites appointed by the Governor (correct)
  • Elected representatives from the people
  • Members of the Legislative Council
  • Civil service department heads
  • What was the primary function of the Legislative Council in Hong Kong's government structure?

    <p>To examine and pass bills (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which position was responsible for formulating fiscal and economic policies in Hong Kong's early government structure?

    <p>Financial Secretary (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key characteristic of the Governor's role in Hong Kong during the early 20th century?

    <p>The Governor always adhered to the advice of the Public Service Commission. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes the political structure of Hong Kong's government during this period?

    <p>The system featured checks and balances among different authorities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary function of the Sanitary Board established in 1883?

    <p>To improve sanitary conditions in Hong Kong. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which best describes the appointment system for officials in early 20th century Hong Kong?

    <p>It lacked representativeness and was controlled by the British government. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a consequence of the Governor needing to maintain good relations with British merchants?

    <p>The Governor often prioritized commercial interests over political stability. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a primary purpose of the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals when it was founded?

    <p>To offer medical care and welfare services to the Chinese community (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what year was Chow Shouson appointed as the first Chinese unofficial member of the Executive Council?

    <p>1926 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did the District Watch Force serve when it was established?

    <p>To remedy police force deficiencies (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which organization was founded in 1878 with the aim of caring for the young and protecting the innocent?

    <p>Po Leung Kuk (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals influence Chinese associations in China and overseas during strikes?

    <p>By persuading them to cease support for disruptive strikes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main function of the District Watch Committee formed in 1891?

    <p>To advise on critical Chinese affairs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which year did the colonial government set up Chinese mutual-aid associations?

    <p>1913 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the role of Chinese merchants in the councils related to governance?

    <p>They took up unofficial seats that allowed them to influence governance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did the British colonial government recruit Chinese elites in the late 19th century?

    <p>To assist in governance due to the economic strength of the Chinese. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key factor contributing to the British reliance on the Westernized Chinese elites?

    <p>The significant population of Chinese people. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was the first Chinese unofficial member of the Legislative Council?

    <p>Ng Choy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the outcome of the Guangdong-HK General Strike in 1925-26?

    <p>It prompted the British to stabilize the political situation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized the political system of Hong Kong from 1900 to 1941?

    <p>Executive-led government with the Governor holding all powers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In 1926, who became the first Chinese unofficial member of the Executive Council?

    <p>Chow Shouson (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of tax revenue was reportedly collected from the Chinese by the late 19th century?

    <p>90% (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary role of the Colonial Secretariat in the context of Hong Kong's governance?

    <p>To hold the power of governance. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the significance of the Peak District Reservation Ordinance passed in 1904?

    <p>It restricted Chinese residents from living in the Peak District. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement about Chinese political representation in Hong Kong during British rule is correct?

    <p>Chinese had limited representation in the councils with only few being nominated. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one consequence of the English language being adopted as the official language in Hong Kong?

    <p>Chinese individuals were at a disadvantage in government interactions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main role of the Chinese associations during British rule in Hong Kong?

    <p>To manage welfare matters for the Chinese population. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong, what type of governance was established?

    <p>Martial law governed by military authority. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was appointed as the first Governor-General during the Japanese occupation?

    <p>Isogai Rensuke (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately reflects the social exclusion faced by Chinese in Hong Kong?

    <p>Chinese were not allowed to inherit land. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key institutional change made in Hong Kong during the Japanese occupation?

    <p>The formation of various ministries under military governance. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary role of the Chinese in the District Bureaus during the Japanese occupation?

    <p>They managed district affairs like food distribution. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes the Japanese government structure in Hong Kong during the occupation?

    <p>The area was divided into three zones, each with its own Bureau. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the purpose of the Rehabilitation Advisory Committee established in 1942?

    <p>To facilitate policy implementation to stabilize society. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key characteristic of the Chinese Representative Council during the Japanese occupation?

    <p>It helped convey local concerns to Japanese rulers without power to influence policy. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the methods used by the Japanese to control the local population during the occupation?

    <p>Using military yen exclusively and banning HK dollar. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the rationing system enforced by the Japanese?

    <p>Rationing limited rice purchases to around 240g daily per person. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Japanisation policy refer to during the occupation of Hong Kong?

    <p>The adoption of Japanese symbols and governance structures. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant consequence of the repatriation policy enforced by the Japanese?

    <p>The return of Hong Kong citizens to the mainland. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Governor of Hong Kong

    The head of the Hong Kong government, representing the British Crown. The Governor held significant power, including appointing members of the Executive and Legislative Councils, making final decisions on policies, and acting as the Commander-in-Chief of British forces in Hong Kong.

    Executive Council

    The body responsible for formulating and executing government policies. Headed by the Governor, it included official and unofficial members. The Executive Council discussed policies and gave advice to the Governor.

    Colonial Secretariat

    The administrative arm of the Hong Kong government, headed by the Chief Secretary. It managed various departments and oversaw the civil service.

    Legislative Council

    A law-making body in Hong Kong, headed by the Governor. It consisted of official and unofficial members appointed by the Governor. The Legislative Council examined and passed bills, controlled public spending, and monitored the government's performance.

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    Letters Patent (英皇制誥)

    Documents outlining the powers and responsibilities of the Governor, granted by the British Crown. The Letters Patent defined the structure of the Hong Kong government and the Governor's authority.

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    The appointed Governor of Hong Kong

    The Governor was appointed by the British government with significant powers including appointing officials and executing policies.

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    Influence of the British government

    In the early 20th century, Hong Kong's political system was influenced by the British government, where the Governor was the head of the government, similar to the British Crown.

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    Advisory Councils in Hong Kong

    The Executive and Legislative Councils were primarily advisory bodies, and the Governor held the ultimate authority in policy making.

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    The early Sanitary Board

    The Sanitary Board was initially composed only of official members. Unsanitary conditions led to the establishment of the board.

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    Governor and British Merchants

    The Governor had to maintain good relationships with British merchants in Hong Kong to ensure economic prosperity in the colony.

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    Economic Power and Chinese Elites

    The colonial government in Hong Kong increasingly relied on Chinese elites due to their growing economic power. These elites contributed a significant portion of tax revenue, making them essential partners in governance. This reliance became more pronounced as the Chinese population in Hong Kong grew.

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    Intermediaries: Chinese Elites

    The British colonial government in Hong Kong recognized the need to involve Chinese elites in governance due to their increasing economic strength and their growing numbers in the society. They faced a language barrier and needed these elites as intermediaries to manage the Chinese population.

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    Chinese Elites in Government

    The colonial government in Hong Kong appointed Chinese elites to positions of power, like the Legislative Council, to help manage the growing Chinese population and ensure stability after the Guangdong-Hong Kong General Strike of 1925-26. By including these elites in government, the British aimed to maintain control and prevent further unrest.

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    Executive-led Government

    The British colonial government in Hong Kong was characterized by an Executive-led government system. The Governor held ultimate authority and controlled most aspects of governance.

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    The Governor's Power

    The Governor in Hong Kong during the British colonial period held significant power and authority, making decisions that shaped the lives of Hong Kong's residents.

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    The Colonial Secretariat

    The Colonial Secretariat played a crucial role in the British colonial government of Hong Kong. It served as the administrative arm of the government, executing the policies and decisions made by the Governor.

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    Tung Wah Group of Hospitals

    The Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, founded in 1872, served the Chinese community by providing healthcare, relief work, education, and social services. It expanded into a large organization in 1931 with the establishment of the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals.

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    Po Leung Kuk

    Established in 1878, Po Leung Kuk aimed to protect vulnerable children and provide care for them. It was instrumental in supporting the government's welfare initiatives.

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    Recruiting Chinese Elite

    The Colonial government utilized the participation of Chinese elite to counter anti-colonial forces and strengthen its grip on Hong Kong. It established the Secretariat for Chinese Affairs to facilitate communication with Chinese associations.

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    District Watch Force

    Founded in 1866, the District Watch Force aimed to address the limitations of the colonial police force. In 1891, a committee composed of Chinese leaders oversaw its operations.

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    District Watch Committee

    The District Watch Committee, established in 1891, comprised influential Chinese leaders like Ho Kai and Ho Fok. This advisory committee significantly influenced the handling of Chinese affairs by the Colonial government.

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    Chinese Mutual-aid Associations

    Mutual-aid associations, like the Chinese Mutual-Aid Association, played a significant role in supporting the Chinese community. The colonial government established the Secretariat for Chinese Affairs in 1913.

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    Secretariat for Chinese Affairs

    The Secretariat for Chinese Affairs was established in 1913 to facilitate communication between the Colonial government and Chinese associations. It played a crucial role in promoting understanding and collaboration.

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    Colonial Government's Strategy

    The Colonial government sought to govern Hong Kong by incorporating Chinese elite into government structures, establishing communication channels with Chinese associations, and addressing emerging challenges through collaboration with Chinese leaders.

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    Martial Law

    A system where the military has the power to make and enforce laws, often replacing normal legal processes.

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    Limited Chinese Upward Mobility

    The Chinese were largely prevented from holding key administrative positions in Hong Kong during British rule. This limited their opportunities for social and economic advancement.

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    Peak District Reservation

    A specific area, like a mountain district, designated for exclusive use by a particular group, often based on race or social status.

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    Peak District Residence Ordinance

    This ordinance prohibited Chinese people from living in the Peak District, a prime residential area reserved for Westerners.

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    Japanese Invasion of Hong Kong

    The Japanese military invaded Hong Kong in 1941, leading to the British surrender and the establishment of Japanese rule.

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    Japanese Occupation Government

    The Japanese set up a new governing body in Hong Kong after taking over, with various ministries responsible for different areas like civil affairs, finance, and transportation.

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    Martial Law in Hong Kong

    The Japanese implemented martial law in Hong Kong, taking control of law enforcement and governance.

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    Governor-General Isogai Rensuke

    Rensuke Isogai, a Japanese general, was appointed as the first governor-general of Hong Kong under Japanese rule.

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    Japanese Occupation Zones

    The Japanese occupation of Hong Kong was divided into three zones: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories, each with its own Area Bureau, administered by a Japanese official.

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    Chinese District Officials

    The Japanese occupation administration relied on local Chinese officials to manage daily affairs, including material management, food distribution, and census recording.

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    Chinese Representative Council

    The Chinese Representative Council was a Japanese-established advisory board that included Chinese members like Robert Kotewall, aiming to ensure smooth implementation of policies.

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    Chinese Cooperative Council

    The Japanese government used the Chinese Cooperative Council to address specific issues related to food, relief, and fuel in Hong Kong, helping stabilize the society despite its limited power.

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    Currency Exchange in Occupation

    During the Japanese occupation, the use of the Hong Kong dollar was banned, and locals were forced to use the Japanese military yen, affecting people's finances.

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    Rationing Policies

    To control the population and resources, the Japanese enforced strict rationing policies limiting the amount of resources available for each individual, such as rice.

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    Repatriation Policy

    The Japanese Occupation also implemented a repatriation policy, forcing locals to return to mainland China, leading to displacement and separation for many families.

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    Censorship in Occupation

    The Japanese occupation was characterized by strict censorship of news and cultural activities, aiming to control information and prevent dissent.

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    Study Notes

    Political and Institutional Changes in Hong Kong in the Early 20th Century

    • The Governor was the head of the Hong Kong government, representing the British Crown
    • The Governor was granted powers by Letters Patent and Royal Instructions
    • The Governor chaired the Executive and Legislative Councils
    • The Governor made final decisions and approved legislation
    • The Governor acted as Commander-in-Chief of British forces in Hong Kong
    • The Colonial Secretariat was the administrative system, headed by the Chief Secretary
    • The Chief Secretary oversaw all administrative departments and the civil service
    • The Financial Secretary managed government finances and economic policies
    • The Attorney General advised on legal matters for all administrative departments

    The Executive Council

    • Headed by the Governor
    • Composed of official and unofficial members
    • Official members were appointed government officials
    • Unofficial members were prominent social figures appointed by the Governor

    The Legislative Council

    • Headed by the Governor
    • A law-making institution
    • Examined and passed bills
    • Controlled government expenditure
    • Composed of official and unofficial members
    • All members were appointed by the Governor

    The Courts of Justice

    • An independent judicial system
    • Tried criminal cases prosecuted by the Attorney General and solved civil disputes
    • Composed of the Supreme Court, District Court, and Magistrates' Court
    • Final appeals could be made to the Privy Council of Britain

    Factors Leading to Changes in Hong Kong

    • Increasing economic strength of British merchants
    • Increasing economic strength of Chinese merchants
    • Growing population of Chinese in Hong Kong
    • Need for British colonial government to incorporate Chinese elites

    Power of Governor

    • Held all executive power, all policies and decisions needed approval by Governor
    • Held legislative power, no bills could become law without Governor's approval
    • Held appointment power of government officials, judges, and justices of the peace
    • Held judicial power as nominal commander of British forces, could grant pardons or reduce penalties

    Constraints on Governor's Power

    • Imposed by the British government, British government could appoint and dismiss Governor, high-ranking officials, etc
    • Governor had to report work to London yearly

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    Description

    Explore the political and institutional changes in Hong Kong during the early 20th century. This quiz covers the roles and powers of the Governor, the structure of the Executive Council, and key administrative officials. Test your knowledge about how these changes shaped Hong Kong's governance.

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