Everything Everywhere Daily The Opium Wars
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Nov 26, 2023 Discover the complex reasons behind the Opium Wars in the 19th century between Britain and China, including trade policies and the national push for drugs. Explore the trade relations, devastating effects of opium addiction, and the treaties forced upon China. Learn about the Second Opium War, the century of humiliation, and China's ongoing efforts to reclaim its lost land.
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Trade Conflict Roots
- Britain's trade deficit with China led them to push opium as a trade good despite its addictive nature.
- China's Middle Kingdom mindset limited trade options, making silver the preferred currency for China.
Opium's Historical Context
- Opium, derived from poppies, was historically used medicinally, but addiction issues escalated with its widespread trade.
- The British controlled poppy-growing regions in India, fueling the opium trade to China to address trade imbalances.
Opium Trade Growth Amidst Bans
- Despite bans on opium importation, its use and trade in China grew due to corruption and demand.
- By 1804, British trade surplus with China was largely due to the increased opium trade.