Opium Wars: The Wars Waged between the Qing dynasty and Western Powers in the Mid-19th Century

During the 18th century, a series of military conflicts known as the Opium War or the Anglo-Chinese War took place between Britain and the Qing Empire. The immediate issue leading to the war was China's official seizure of opium stockpiles at Canton and the threat of death penalty for future offenders. British merchants sought free commerce and equal diplomatic recognition for all nations, and with British government support, they achieved their goals. As a result of their victory, the Brit...