A Study On The Perception And Practice On Foreign Affairs Of Zhang Peilun (1875—1884)

Zhang Peilun was a representative of Qingliu Party in late Qing Dynasty. His views onforeign affairs reflected another side of diplomatic cognition, and his diplomatic practiceshowed special feature. In this article,it uses time as a main clue, give analysis on ZhangPeilun's perception and practice on foreign policy, from1875 to 1884.The article is composed of five parts:Part 1: Zhang peilun began pay attention to foreign polices and issues, and had somepreliminary understanding on the circumstances of international society.Part 2: Zhang peilun retreated from his official position, as usual as permit regulars forhis mother's death. He continued to refer to foreign events which were come about in that age,for example, Yili Area Negotiation between China and Russia. He also brought up some viewson the diplomatic events.Part 3: Zhang peilun returned political scene, in the summer of 1881, continued to payattention to foreign affairs. He mainly focused on Sino-French and Sino-Japaneserelationships, and elaborated some suggestion from international angles.Part 4: Zhang peilun entered the quasi-foreign agency ,named Zongli Yamen. Heparticipated in more diplomatic activities.The level of his cognition had reached a new heightat this time.Part 5: Zhang peilun was appointed to the position, which is mainly about deployment ondefense matters in Fujian front. His action was concentrated on these issues, such as defense,military prepare, and so on.This article mainly depends on the history data ,such as memorials to the Emperor,letters,integrates with the epoch background ,analyzes the change of his diplomaticcognition .This study can make us to learn more about the changing course of diplomaticviewpoint in the modernization of China. It also can help us understanding well on the valueand meaning of foreign policy in latter-day.