893.00/1–1948: Telegram
The Consul General at Shanghai (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 19—7:13 a. m.]
128. Evidence thus far obtained (reContel 93 to Nanking, repeated Department as 127) points to following general pattern of events leading to demonstration: Rightist (CC) elements in Government were first to seize opportunity presented by Kowloon issue and to organize press campaign and student demonstrations with view to (1) translating student unrest into pro-Kmt movement and prevent issue being utilized to strengthen leftist cause; (2) bringing pressure on British to improve Nanking’s bargaining position on current Sino-British issues (especially relating to Hong Kong); and [Page 50] (3) undermining Political Science Group through attack on “weak-kneed” foreign policy.
Ultra Nationalistic San Min Chu I Youth Corps, which has bitterly resented its subordination to “corrupt and unfit” Kmt leaders, took advantage of its strong position in local colleges and secondary schools and of genuine student sentiment already aroused against Government and US and British “imperialism” to bring about adoption by demonstrators of stronger attacks on Government and violently abusive slogans against America as well as Britain. Available evidence suggests that local authorities made no serious attempt to stop use of such slogans but did endeavor to divert main attention of demonstrators to anti-British aspect.
While leftist elements in some institutions (especially Chiaotung University, a known leftist center) undoubtedly participated and were probably responsible for some of more violent slogans, organized Communist direction has not been established and is unlikely in view of prominent role played by rightist Youth Corps.
Sent Nanking 94, repeated Department 128.