The trade advantage gained by the United States through the Open Door policy is portrayed in this political cartoon. Uncle Sam stands prominently in the “open door,” while representatives of the other great powers seek admittance to the “Flowery Kingdom” of China. In fact, the Open Door policy promised equal access for all powers to the China trade, not U.S. preeminence as the cartoon implies.

READING THE IMAGE: How does the cartoon portray the role of the United States in international diplomacy?

CONNECTIONS: In what ways does this image misrepresent the reality of American and European involvement in China and of the Open Door policy?