247. Victorian Narcos: Tea Starts A Drug War (Ep 1)
whatshot 147 snips
Apr 16, 2025
Discover how Britain’s passion for tea ignited a conflict over drug sales to China. Uncover the fascinating journey of tea from ceremonial roots in ancient China to a lucrative commodity that shaped British identity. Learn about the complex ties between the opium trade and British imperialism, and how this dynamic influenced global trade patterns. This historical exploration reveals the unexpected consequences of tea consumption that led to one of the most significant drug wars in history.
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insights INSIGHT
British Opium Wars: Selling Drugs by War
The British fought two wars to secure the right to sell opium to China.
This reversed the typical drug war trend where the West tries to block narcotics, showing a unique imperial drive.
insights INSIGHT
Tea's Role in Imperial Power
Britain's tea addiction fueled enormous economic and geopolitical power.
The Opium Wars led to China's "century of humiliation" and shaped modern Chinese nationalism.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Poppies Misunderstood in China
When British leaders wore red poppies on Remembrance Day in China, the symbol was misunderstood due to opium's history.
This illustrates the lasting sensitivities from the Opium Wars in China today.
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Written by Lu Yu during the Tang Dynasty, 'The Classic of Tea' is a foundational text that systematically explores tea's history, cultivation, production, and preparation. It transformed tea into a national drink in China and influenced tea culture globally. The book consists of ten chapters, detailing aspects from tea's mythological origins to its utensils and brewing methods.
Nathaniel's Nutmeg
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Charles Milton
Confessions of an opium eater
Thomas De Quincey
In 'Confessions of an English Opium-Eater', Thomas De Quincey chronicles his journey with laudanum addiction, detailing both the euphoric experiences and the devastating consequences. The book is divided into sections that explore the pleasures and pains of opium use, offering a candid and influential portrayal of addiction in the early 19th century. Despite its controversial reception, it remains a significant work in English literature, influencing perceptions of narcotics and addiction for generations.
The Honourable Company
John Kaye
No information available.
How did the British taste for tea start a war over the right to sell drugs to China? When did tea become fashionable in Britain? How did the Dutch bring tea to India?
William and Anita explore how the nation’s love of tea created a domino effect that led to the East India Company running a more prolific international drug cartel than Pablo Escobar…
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