Lot #44

President Chester A. Arthur and the Shufeldt Treaty - Korea's First Treaty with a Western Nation

Description

President Arthur authorizes his representative for the forthcoming Shufeldt Treaty, Korea's first with a Western nation

Partly-printed DS as president, one page, 8 x 10, November 15, 1881. President Arthur directs the Secretary of State to “cause the Seal of the United States to be affixed to my letter to His Majesty the Emperor or King of Chosan (Corea) accrediting Commodore R. W. Shufeldt as Plenipotentiary of the United States to conclude a treaty of friendship and commerce.” Signed boldly at the conclusion by Chester A. Arthur. In fine condition.

This document relates to the Shufeldt Treaty, or the Joseon–United States Treaty of 1882, which marked Korea's first treaty with a Western nation. President Arthur appointed Rear Admiral Robert Wilson Shufeldt to serve as the American representative, who negotiated with Korean officials in 1882. The result was a 14-article treaty that established protection for shipwrecked sailors, commerce regulations, and a most-favored-nation status for the United States.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts
• Dates: #689 - Ended April 17, 2024

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