The Opium Wars also known as the Anglo-Chinese Wars, were the climax of trade disputes and diplomatic difficulties between China under the Qing Dynasty and the British Empire after China sought to restrict illegal British opium trafficking. It consisted of the First Opium War from 1839 to 1842 and the Second Opium War from 1856 to 1860.
1. Why was the balace of trade so favourable to China in the early 19th century?
2. How did the British manage to compensate it?
3. What's the name of the Chinese official in charge of banning the British opium traffic?
4. What were the consequences for China of her defeat in the opium wars?
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OPTIONAL FILM: "La Guerra del Opio"
