Shanghai International Settlement

The Shanghai International Settlement was an area in Shanghai established in 1863 through agreements between foreign powers, mainly Britain and later others, allowing them to govern themselves there. It functioned as a semi-colonial zone with its own laws and administration, separate from Chinese control. This settlement facilitated international trade, foreign presence, and influence in Shanghai until it was gradually merged into the Chinese municipal government in the mid-20th century. It played a significant role in shaping Shanghai's modernization and its role as a global trading hub during that era.