Treaty of Kulja

Quick Facts: Who was Treaty of Kulja?

Subject:

Treaty of Kulja

Known for:

1851 treaty opening Kulja and Chuguchak for Sino-Russian trade.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Treaty of Kulja (also spelled Kuldja; Chinese: 中俄伊犁塔爾巴哈臺通商章程; Russian: Кульджинский трактат) was a treaty between Qing China and the Russian Empire, signed in 1851, opening Kulja (Huiyuan and later Ningyuan) and Chuguchak to Sino-Russian trade. Prepared by the first Russian consul to China, Ivan Zakharov, the treaty was preceded by gradual Russian advance throughout the nineteenth century into Kazakhstan in direct competition with British efforts to impose self-advantageous trade terms on China.

Career & Major Achievements

Cross-border trade became increasingly important to Russia and China in the 19th century with Russian merchants trading illegally at Kulja in Xinjiang's Yili River Valley. In 1803, Tsar Alexander I attempted to negotiate the opening of the entire Sino-Russian border to trade.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

This effort failed, however, when the Tsar's representative refused to kow-tow to a tablet representing the Emperor. Preceded by a gradual Russian advance throughout the 19th century into Kazakhstan, in direct competition with British efforts to impose self-advantageous trade terms on China, the treaty was signed on 25 July 1851 by the Yishan and Buyantai.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1803: 1803 Milestone — In 1803, Tsar Alexander I attempted to negotiate the opening of the entire Sino-Russian border to trade.
2. 1851: 1851 Milestone — The Treaty of Kulja (also spelled Kuldja; Chinese: 中俄伊犁塔爾巴哈臺通商章程; Russian: Кульджинский трактат) was a treaty between Qing China and the Russian Empire, signed in 1851, opening Kulja (Huiyuan and later Ningyuan) and Chuguchak to Sino-Russian trade.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Treaty of Kulja

True or False: “True or false: The Treaty of Kulja was the first formal agreement to open trade between Russia and China.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. While the Treaty of Kulja was a major milestone, earlier attempts, such as those by Tsar Alexander I in 1803, show that negotiations for trade were ongoing, even if they failed.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Treaty of Kulja