1st Edition

Lord Salisbury and Nationality in the East Viewing Imperialism in its Proper Perspective

By Shih-tsung Wang Copyright 2019
    256 Pages
    by Routledge

    256 Pages
    by Routledge

    This study explains how Salisbury viewed cultural conflicts between the East and the West, how he treated Oriental nationality and nationalist aspirations in British dominions in the East, and how he directed British policy in the Eastern world in a time when the Western Powers were plunging into a struggle for spheres of predominance. In pursuit of British imperial interests, Salisbury was outwardly determined, but acutely aware of the inherent moral conflicts. He understood that the expansion of Europe was inevitable, but, taking into account the rights and feelings of the Eastern nations, he endeavoured to reduce his country’s impact on the peoples subjected to British control. Hence his preference for the generally peaceful invasion effected by informal empire. Following an introductory discussion on Salisbury’s ideas and policy, particularly in the light of his treatment of nationality, this research investigates his record in India, Turkey, Egypt, and China to argue for a strikingly sympathetic attitude in his dealings with Eastern nationalities. While it is a truism to say that British imperialism was coloured by Christian beliefs and liberal principles, it has not yet been appreciated how far Salisbury succeeded in reconciling the moral and practical demands of Western civilization upon itself with the requirements of power.

    Preface



    Chapter 1  Introduction



    Chapter 2  Lord Salisbury on British Policy in India and Central Asia



    Chapter 3  Lord Salisbury and the Ottoman Empire



    Chapter 4  Lord Salisbury and the Justification of the British Position in Egypt



    Chapter 5  Scramble for China: Lord Salisbury and British Policy in the Far East



    Chapter 6  Conclusion: Lord Salisbury and the Eastern Mind



    Appendix  Parliament and Empire: British Policy in Egypt, 1882-85



    Bibliography



    Index

    Biography

    Shih-tsung Wang is Professor of History at National Taiwan University.