What was the Opium War?
At a time when nations like France and other empires were engaged in driving their economic control around the world, British merchants engaged in a lucrative trade of opium in the Chinese market. Recognizing the harmful effects of opium, Commissioner Lin Zexu, in 1839, seized and destroyed British opium shipments. In response, Britain, driven by economic interests, dispatched its military, leading to a series of conflicts known as the Opium War.
Opium Wars in China – Summary, Timeline, Causes and Effects
The Opium Wars took place in two parts. The First Opium War was waged from 1839 to 1842, and the Second Opium War took place in 1853. The wars had weakened Chinese power, and as a result of its loss, China had to give away some of its most important territories to Britain. The wars also impacted Chinese trade and treaties with foreigners. These wars between China, Britain, and France marked a complex period in Chinese history.
Table of Content
- What was the Opium War?
- Opium War – Timeline
- How did the Opium War affect China?
- What caused the Opium War?
- What was the most significant result of the Opium Wars?
- Who won the Opium War?
- FAQs on The Opium Wars and Sino-British Conflicts over Trade