1. Writing AS Essays Use this structure to help you structure your paragraphs
Writing your paragraph. P – Make your point in the first sentence H – Hierarchy. How important is this reason in comparison with the other reasons. E – Explain your point E – Evidence. Give evidence to support your explanation. L – Link your point to your previous/next point and/or the question.

2. The May 4th Movement What was the May 4th Movement?
Why is it so significant in the History of China in the Twentieth Century?

3. Background In 1917 China declared War on Germany Why?
Believed that they would be able to claim concessions in Shandong Province back from Germany
To earn a new self-respect for China
France and Britain needed the manpower
Strategically important

4. China in World War One About 100,000 men were sent to Europe
They were used as auxiliary helpers eg Mechanics, labourers, digging trenches, stretcher bearers etc
Tension between Chinese and Europeans
Money sent home
2,000 Chinese workers killed

5. The Treaty of Versailles
China has high hopes
30th April German concessions to be given to Japan instead of China following a secret Treaty of 1917
Plus Chinese premier Duan Qirui (resigned Oct 1918) had made a deal with Japan
Triggers mass protest from Chinese around the world
Disgusted at double dealing West

6. The May 4th Movement
4th May 1919 Violent Protests in Beijing, Shanghai and other major cities

7. The May 4th Movement
3000 students from Beijing University and others march to the Imperial Palace
Demonstrate against foreign powers especially Japan
Set fire to Minister of Communications’ house
Beat up foreigners and government minister
32 students arrested, 1 student died

8. The May 4th Movement Protests spread to Shanghai and other cities
14th May Government bans meetings of students
19th May students in universities and schools call a General strike and boycott of Japanese goods
5th June strikes spread to Wuhan, Ji’nan and other cities and includes businessmen and workers showing support for students

9. The May 4th Movement
Demonstrators now calling for resignation of pro-Japanese government officials
10th June – Government fired Rulin and Zhang Zongxiang
12th June – demonstrators celebrate
28th June – Treaty of Versailles signed. Shandong provinces given to Japan

10. Why is the May 4th Movement so important?
Gave a direction to radicals and revolutionaries opposed to foreign imperialism
The membership of the Movement
The influence of the Russian Revolution in 1917
Many turned to Marxism and Communism
1921 Chinese Communist Party formed
Anti-foreigner demonstrations continued throughout the 1920s

11. Homework (For next lesson)
Read the sheet on “The New Culture or May Fourth Movement”
Take notes on:
Examples of this movement
What ideas/ traditions did they attack and support?
Give examples of some of the members of the movement
Find out what legacy this movement had for China