# Soochow University

> university in Suzhou, China from 1900 to 1952

**Wikidata**: [Q19594981](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q19594981)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soochow_University_(1900–1952))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/soochow-university-q19594981

## Summary
Soochow University was a university located in Suzhou, China, operating from 1900 to 1952. It was also known by several alternative names including Dongwu University and was established during the Qing dynasty.

## Key Facts
- Founded in 1900 and dissolved in 1952 (inception: 1900; dissolved: 1952)
- Located in Suzhou, China (coordinates: 31.30439, 120.63706)
- Known by multiple names including 東吳大學 (蘇州), 東吳大學堂, 中西書院, and 蘇州東吳大學
- Country context: operated during the Qing dynasty, Republic of China, and People's Republic of China periods
- Had the motto "養天地正氣 法古今完人"
- Was classified as a university (instance_of: university)
- Replaced by Soochow University (replaced_by: Soochow University)

## FAQs
### Q: When was Soochow University established and when did it close?
A: Soochow University was established in 1900 and dissolved in 1952.

### Q: Where was Soochow University located?
A: Soochow University was located in Suzhou, China.

### Q: What were some of the alternative names for Soochow University?
A: It was also known as Dongwu University (東吳大學), Dongwu University Hall (東吳大學堂), and Western and Chinese College (中西書院).

### Q: What was the motto of Soochow University?
A: The university's motto was "養天地正氣 法古今完人" (Nourish the righteous spirit of heaven and earth, follow the perfect people of ancient and modern times).

## Why It Matters
Soochow University holds historical significance as one of the earliest modern universities in China, operating during a period of significant social and political transformation. Established in 1900, it represented an important step in China's educational modernization efforts during the late Qing dynasty and early Republic period. The university's presence in Suzhou, a city with deep cultural heritage, symbolized the integration of traditional Chinese values with Western educational methods. Its operation until 1952 marked a long period of academic continuity in the region, contributing to the development of higher education infrastructure and intellectual discourse in China.

## Notable For
- Operated as a university for over five decades (1900-1952), representing a long period of academic continuity in Suzhou
- Known by multiple historical names reflecting its evolution and cultural context
- Maintained operations through significant political transitions from Qing dynasty to Republic of China and People's Republic of China
- Featured a distinctive motto emphasizing moral and intellectual development
- Served as a key educational institution in the Suzhou region during its existence

## Body
### History and Founding
Soochow University was established in 1900 during the late Qing dynasty, a period when China was undergoing significant modernization efforts. The university's inception marked an important step in the development of higher education institutions in China, reflecting the country's transition from traditional educational systems to modern academic institutions.

### Location and Infrastructure
The university was situated in Suzhou, a city with rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Its coordinates were approximately 31.30439 latitude and 120.63706 longitude. The institution operated within the context of Suzhou's urban landscape, contributing to the city's educational and cultural development.

### Academic Identity
As a university, Soochow University was classified under the academic institution category for further education. It maintained operations through three distinct political periods: the Qing dynasty, the Republic of China, and the early People's Republic of China. The institution's existence spanned over five decades, representing a long period of academic continuity in the region.

### Legacy and Transition
The university was dissolved in 1952, marking the end of its operations. Its legacy continued through its replacement by other educational institutions in the region, with its historical significance preserved through various references and records. The institution's multiple names and evolving identity reflect the complex historical context in which it operated.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File