In this engaging discussion, Stephen R. Platt, a professor and author, unpacks the complex motivations behind the Opium Wars. Britain’s pursuit of profit led to devastating conflicts rooted in addiction and imperial ambition. He examines Emperor Daoguang's struggle against opium and the moral dilemmas faced by British merchants. The podcast also explores the unequal treaties that followed, shaping China’s future and its perception of Western imperialism. Join Platt as he reveals the profound consequences of these historical events.

Jonathan Benton, CEO of Intelligent Sanctuary and former UK law enforcement head, discusses AML challenges, transparency in financial dealings, disparities in financial crime investigation, and compliance reforms in the UK government-business relationship with Stephen Platt.

When it came to trade wars, the British didn't mess around. Four steam-powered battleships sent by the English to force China to change its trade policy in the mid-19th century changed the course of history. But how did they end up fighting the Chinese in the first place, and what are the contemporary echoes of this historical trade fight? Stephen Platt, the author of the recent Imperial Twilight: The Opium War and the End of China's Last Golden Age, answers these questions and more on the latest episode of ChinaEconTalk. Get bonus content on Patreon See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices