The 1st “Opium” (Anglo-Chinese) War, 1839 - 1842
 Formal imperialism – The notions of direct control, the
practice of extending the power, control or rule by one
country over areas outside its borders.
One country establishes a government and
dominates over the people of another country by military
rule power is shared between local rulers.
-Britain1900’s century - The British empire established a “free
trade” empire in Central and south America they set
companies that control the harvesting progress and
shipping
“Free trade” imperialism – Based on trade and
diplomacy rather than government.
 Guano trade in Peru – The historical case about guano
and its impact on the trade and the environment is and
interesting one.
– Guano is a natural fertilizer made from bird feces, was a
prized commodity during the 19th century and heavily
traded by European and American traders.
Pro’s about Guano
it helped build countries like Peru.
Expanded empires such as the United States,
Made companies and individuals involved rich, and
exploited the local populations and the environment.

I. Opium War:
 First Opium war – 1839 – 1842 Established Britain’s control
over China.
The reason was money and Tea because tea was
becoming the national drink
 Canton system – Mercantilist trade system controlled from
both sides – Monopoly –
 NOT Free trading
 Tea is shipped from to Canton to London – taxed – and
shipped to the rest of the empire.
 “Hong” merchants – Chinese merchants who, previous to
the treaty of 1842, formed a guild which had the exclusive
privilege of trading with foreigners.
 Country Trades (rs) – Diplomatic trade between countries.
Diplomatic relations, trade, and the administration of
justice.
II. Impact of the opium trade
 Lintin Island – In the early 19th century Nei Lingding (Lintin)
Island was called the "outer anchorage" for European
ships traveling to Canton.
 They would have to stop at the island, have their cargo
inspected and measured by the Chinese customs officials
stationed at the island, and pay customs duties.
 “Scrambling Dragons” – The traders corrupted Chinese
officials and paid off the Chinese smugglers who rowed
the boats.
 Commissioner Lin – Lin Zexu, style name Yuanfu, was a
Chinese scholar and official of the Qing Dynasty.
He is most recognized for his conduct and his constant
position on the "moral high ground" in his fight.
III. American involvement
 Russell & Co. – was the largest and most important
American trading house in China from 1842 to its closing in
1891.
Dealing mostly in silks, teas and opium
 Treaty of Nanking – was signed on 29 August 1842 to mark
the end of the First Opium War (1839–42) between the
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and the Qing
Dynasty of China.
It was the first of what the Chinese called the unequal
treaties because Britain had no obligations in return.