Europeanness in Chinese Historical Perceptions

Abstract

Europe in chinese eyes symbolizes an image in constant change. From China’s diplomatic fiasco in the Paris Peace Conference which incited the May Fourth Movement protesting against imperialism to China’s collaboration with some European countries in the Second World War; from isolation and xenophobia after the founding of the People’s Republic of China to the increasing political, economic and cultural communications with Europeans after opening-up, Chinese attitude toward Europe has not been consistent in the last century.