Managing strikes and racial issues in the South China Morning Post

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study aims to reveal the labor–management conflicts within the South China Morning Post (SCMP) in the early 20th century, which resulted in complex social turmoil. As a result of decreasing racial discrimination and the provision of a fair working environment, SCMP striking workers, during the company’s developmental period, became its stakeholders and protectors until the Japanese takeover of the newspaper. During the Great Strike of 1925–1926, Chinese workers unexpectedly supported the company, which not only survived the crisis but also helped stabilize the British colony of Hong Kong. Additionally, a series of solutions for Chinese workers and the SCMP’s management were proposed to promote the growth and development of Chinese media personnel, form a stable company management and organizational structure, and make the SCMP a commercial success. This success was also aimed at ensuring the newspaper played a role in the status, influence, and social identity of Hong Kong Chinese people, and the development of Hong Kong society. The study also examines how the English-language media became powerful and contributed to the rise of the status and influence of Chinese leadership in Hong Kong society.