Li Hung-chang and the Liu-ch'iu (Ryukyu) Controversy, 1871-1881

Abstract

Li Hung-chang's role in China's foreign affairs during the late Ch'ing period has been a subject of much study. Little is known, however, about his role in the Sino-Japanese dispute over the Liu-ch'iu (Ryukyu) Islands in the period between 1871 and 1881. What was Li's attitude toward the tributary states in general, and toward the ex-tributary state, Japan, in particular, during the period of controversy? What was Li's influence on China's foreign policy decision-making during this period? How did Li resolve (or not resolve) the seeming dilemma at a time when China was thrust into the modern nation-state system while maintaining the traditional tributary state system? Specifically, what was Li's policy toward Liu-ch'iu vis-à-vis Japan?