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Opium Wars

Definition

The Opium Wars were two conflicts fought between China and Western powers, primarily Britain, in the mid-19th century. These wars were triggered by disputes over trade imbalances, diplomatic relations, and the illegal opium trade.

Analogy

Imagine you're at a school where trading cards are banned because they cause too much distraction. However, one student keeps smuggling them in and selling them to other students. When the principal tries to stop this student, his parents (who are influential members of the PTA) challenge the school's authority leading to a conflict. This is similar to how Britain continued the opium trade despite Chinese laws banning it, leading to conflicts known as the Opium Wars.

Related terms

First Opium War (1839-1842): This was the first major conflict of the Opium Wars. It began when China attempted to suppress the opium trade. British forces responded with military action resulting in their victory and signing of Treaty of Nanking.

Second Opium War (1856-1860): The second major conflict in which Britain and France fought against China due to disputes over treaty rights, diplomatic respect and legalised opium trade. The war ended with another defeat for China and signing of Treaty of Tientsin.

Treaty of Nanking: Signed after First Opium War in 1842 between UK and Qing dynasty China that ended hostilities and opened up five ports for foreign trade along with cession of Hong Kong Island.