1899 Open Door Note

The 1899 Open Door Note was a diplomatic communication from U.S. Secretary of State John Hay to major world powers, urging them to allow equal trade access to China and to respect its sovereignty. At the time, various nations were vying for control over Chinese territories, which threatened to limit America's trade interests. The note emphasized that all countries should have equal opportunities to do business in China, promoting free trade and cooperation while seeking to prevent any one nation from monopolizing Chinese markets. This policy laid the groundwork for U.S. involvement in international affairs in Asia.