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Wellington Koo: A Chinese Diplomat in Western History

Benji Powell

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Published in Wellington Koo: China (Makers Of The Modern World)

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Wellington Koo was a Chinese diplomat who played a significant role in shaping China's relationship with the West during the first half of the 20th century. He was the first Chinese diplomat to serve as a delegate to the League of Nations and later became China's ambassador to the United States and the United Kingdom. Koo was a key figure in the negotiations that led to the end of the Boxer Rebellion and the establishment of the Republic of China. He also worked to promote Chinese culture and understanding in the West.

Early life and education

Wellington Koo was born in Shanghai, China, in 1887. His father was a wealthy merchant and his mother was a devout Christian. Koo received his early education at the McTyeire School for Boys in Shanghai and the St. John's University in Shanghai. In 1904, he went to the United States to study at Columbia University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in political science. He then went to Oxford University, where he earned a doctorate in law.

Wellington Koo: China (Makers of the Modern World)

by Jonathan Clements

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Diplomatic career

After graduating from Oxford, Koo returned to China and began his diplomatic career. In 1912, he was appointed as China's delegate to the League of Nations. He served in this capacity until 1922, when he was appointed as China's ambassador to the United States. Koo served as ambassador to the United States until 1927, when he was appointed as China's ambassador to the United Kingdom. He served in this capacity until 1932, when he was appointed as China's foreign minister. Koo served as foreign minister until 1935, when he was appointed as China's ambassador to France. He served in this capacity until 1940, when he was appointed as China's ambassador to the United Kingdom.

Wellington Koo, A Chinese Diplomat, Played A Significant Role In Shaping China's Relationship With The West During The First Half Of The 20th Century. Wellington Koo: China (Makers Of The Modern World)

Koo was a key figure in the negotiations that led to the end of the Boxer Rebellion and the establishment of the Republic of China. He also worked to promote Chinese culture and understanding in the West. He was a member of the Chinese delegation to the Paris Peace Conference in 1919, and he helped to draft the Covenant of the League of Nations. Koo also served as the president of the League of Nations Assembly in 1921-1922.

Later life

After his retirement from the diplomatic service, Koo continued to be active in public life. He was a member of the United Nations General Assembly from 1946 to 1952, and he served as the president of the United Nations Security Council in 1949-1950. Koo also served as the chairman of the United Nations International Law Commission from 1955 to 1966. He died in New York City in 1985.

Legacy

Wellington Koo was a major figure in Chinese history and diplomacy. He played a key role in shaping China's relationship with the West during the first half of the 20th century. He was a skilled diplomat and a tireless advocate for Chinese interests. Koo's legacy continues to inspire Chinese diplomats today.

Wellington Koo: China (Makers of the Modern World)

by Jonathan Clements

5 out of 5