Haipai

Before colonization (1843), Shanghai culture was mainly influenced and shaped by the ancient kingdoms of Wu and Yue (districts of now Jiangsu and Zhejiang Provinces).

Following the defeat of China in the First Opium War by the British Empire, several ports were opened to foreign trade including Shanghai.

After the issue of Nanjing Treaty in 1843, small enclaves were formed and ruled by foreign settlements (see picture).

In those districts, Shanghai opened to modern urban facilities, science, and technology, as well as foreign culture.

Shanghai was involved in the western capital system after its opening up and became the forerunner of Chinese modernization.

Third, Shanghai concession was the biggest one in China at that time and it exerted a profound influence in the development of Haipai culture.

In addition, many famous writers such as Guo Moruo, Mao Dun, and Cao Yu left Shanghai and resettled in Beijing.

Drama In Silence and novel The Scar, which was written by Lu Xinhua, represented the new development of Haipai culture.

Due to its special geographic location, Shanghai became the forerunner to embrace novel styles, including new changes in values, behaviors, academy, fashion, and customs.

For example, Shanghai witnessed the first modern English newspaper North China Herald, the first museum, the first women's college, the first cinema, etc.

Influenced by Western aesthetic standards, traditional Chinese qipao was shortened and became more fit (see picture).