Empire 247. Victorian Narcos: Tea Starts A Drug War (Ep 1)
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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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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.
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.
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.
