China & New Imperialism

Trade Between Britain & China Before the 1700’s China had a favorable balance of trade because they traded silk, porcelain and tea for gold and silver. During this time period China experienced a trade surplus, where they exported more than they imported. By the 1800’s, China entered a period of decline and the Industrial Revolution created a need for expanded markets for European goods.

The OPIUM WAR Great Britain traded Indian Opium for Chinese tea. Soon many Chinese became addicted to this drug. The Chinese outlawed opium and called for Great Britain to stop the trade. When Great Britain refused to stop trading Opium it caused the Opium War.

Continued China looses the war and is forced to pay Great Britain for the losses in the war and had to open five ports to foreign trade. It also forces China to give all British living in Hong Kong extraterritorially.

Taiping Rebellion Weakens CHina During the Qing Dynasty there was widespread corruption, poverty, and a unfair tax system. The Taiping Rebellion lasts from 1850 to 1854 and is most likely the most devastating peasant revolt. These rebels called for end of the Qing Dynasty.

China Adapts New Reforms “Self-strengthen movement” imported Western technology. Mid 1800s, China was divided over need to adopt Western way. Empress Ci Xi supported Confucian traditions. U.S. Open Door Policy, where China opened trade to everyone on equal basis.

The QING Dynasty Falls 1899 Boxer Uprising occurs, after the uprising, conservatives were forced to westernize. Nationalism spreads. Sun Yixian pushed for 3 principals: nationalism, democracy, livelihood. 1908, a 2 year old inherited the throne. Chaos led to Sun Yixian becoming president of Chinese republic.

Lets Take Some Time to Make Some Notecards for the Midterm 