The May Fourth Movement, 1919

What was the May Fourth movement?

The May Fourth movement was a protest against the Treaty of Versailles, and in particular the land reparations term which could see Chinese territories given to Japan.

Who led the May Fourth movement?

Students from Beijing University formed the majority of protesters, including a young Mao Zedong. This later spread to other cities and workers.

When was the May Fourth movement?

The movement was formed during the Treaty of Versailles negotiations. Formal protests began on 4th May, 1919.

What were the demands of the May Fourth movement?

The movement demanded that the principle of national self-determination be applied to China.

What were the consequences of the May Fourth movement?

There were 4 consequences of the May Fourth movement:

• ❖ The Chinese refused to sign the Treaty of Versailles.
• ❖ This movement generated a rejection of traditional principles in China. These ranged from the way in which China was governed to marriage practices.
• ❖ There was a growth of 'new ideas' such as democracy and equal rights in China, which became known as the 'new tide'.
• ❖ The 'new tide' demanded the unity of China under one democratic government and the removal of Western privileges in China.