Britain's trade deficit
China's trade policy
China's trade surplus
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The Peninsular Wars, when France led by Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Spain and Portugal.
The Chinese government called on Britain to stop trading drugs when they outlawed opium. Britain would not cooperate, nor would it stop trading drugs. This led to the Opium War of 1839.
Estimates suggest that opium addiction led to millions of deaths in China during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Opium Wars and the subsequent social and health crises caused by widespread opium use contributed to significant mortality rates, but precise figures are difficult to determine. Some historians estimate that millions may have died directly or indirectly from opium-related causes, including health deterioration and social disruption. The impact of opium addiction on Chinese society was profound and long-lasting.
Great Britain would not stop its merchants from selling opium in China.
During the Opium Wars, Britain took control of the port of Hong Kong. Following the First Opium War (1839-1842), the Treaty of Nanking ceded Hong Kong Island to Britain in 1842, establishing it as a significant trading post and colonial territory. This control was further solidified with the Second Opium War, which led to the expansion of British influence in the region.
China launched a government-led program to industrialize its military and economy.
Opium caused significant social, economic, and health problems in China. The widespread addiction led to a decline in productivity and increased poverty among users and their families. Moreover, the opium trade fueled corruption and conflict, notably resulting in the Opium Wars with Britain, which undermined China's sovereignty and led to unfavorable treaties. The public health crisis associated with opium addiction also strained medical resources and contributed to societal instability.
During the 19th century, Britain controlled most of the limited trade allowed with China, particularly through the opium trade. The British East India Company played a significant role in exporting opium from India to China, which led to significant economic and social impacts in China. This dominance was solidified after the Opium Wars, resulting in treaties that opened up Chinese ports to British trade and influence.
The British needed Chinese goods, primarily tea, but the Chinese didn't need anything from the British. That would leave a trade deficit on the British side, so they got the Chinese nation addicted to opium (unprocessed heroin) which they produced in India. When the Chinese emperor tried to ban opium, the Chinese people rebelled against him, backed by the British, which led to Opium wars.
The Peninsular Wars, when France led by Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Spain and Portugal.
The Peninsular Wars, when France led by Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Spain and Portugal.