
During its early free port years, Hong Kong was under the administration of governors appointed by the British Crown. The Hong Kong government, the Executive Council, and the Legislative Council were thus established, forming a governance system in which power was centralised to the Hong Kong Governor. Meanwhile, Hong Kong developed in different aspects including economy and education. The social status of the upper-class Chinese, mainly consisted of Chinese merchants, gradually rose.
During its early free port years, Hong Kong was under the administration of governors appointed by the British Crown. The Hong Kong government, the Executive Council, and the Legislative Council were thus established, forming a governance system in which power was centralised to the Hong Kong Governor. Meanwhile, Hong Kong developed in different aspects including economy and education. The social status of the upper-class Chinese, mainly consisted of Chinese merchants, gradually rose.
The British rule in Hong Kong began following the outbreak of the First Opium War, the British forces’ landing on Hong Kong Island, and the conclusion of the Treaty of Nanking. Some British administrative and management approaches has been shaping Hong Kong to these days.
After Hong Kong was established as a free port, its favourable conditions gradually turned it into an important entrepot of the Far East.
During the early years of British Hong Kong, the social status of the Chinese was much lower than that of the British. The social status of the upper-class Chinese gradually improved after Chinese merchants rose to power.
After Hong Kong was established as a free port, Christian schools and government schools were set up subsequently. In 1887, the College of Medicine was founded. In 1912, the University of Hong Kong was officially opened. The introduction of Western-style education greatly contributed to the future development of Hong Kong.
After signing the Convention Between Great Britain and China Respecting an Extension of Hong Kong Territory with the Qing government, Britain took over the New Territories in 1899. However, they were face with strong resistance from the local villagers.