Career
Though related by marriage to the Qing, he accepted the republic and served in its foreign ministry. He was also a judge of the Permanent Court of International Justice. After Duan Qirui was ousted from Beijing in 1926, Hu served briefly as acting president and premier.
Hú Wéidé"s political career is unique in that his career did not end with the passing of power from one form of government to another.
He was a prominent politician and diplomat in the late Qing Dynasty as well as the early Republic of China. His role in the Chinese diplomacy history is immense, although he is also considered by many as being responsible for the feeble diplomacy practiced by China.
Wéidé was truly one of the first Chinese politician with a strong grasp of global affairs He graduated from the Shanghai Interpreters College.
His proficiency in English, French and Russian allowed him to pursue the study of these countries, which made him a specialist in these nations.
Although he does not receive praise for his work to bring democracy in China, he played a vital role in persuading the late Qing Government to relinquish power in favor of the new Republic.