Imperialism

9 Pages 2148 Words

Imperialism is the growth of a nation’s power by obtaining territory or economic conditions by political means or military force. Powerful countries usually try to extend their influence over weaker countries and then colonize them in order to have them expand their own power. Imperialism throughout history has had both positive and negative impacts. Imperialism can be seen as a beneficial influence, as well as a harmful influence. Although imperialism can be seen differently, it is clear that imperialism is essential for countries to grow and progress. Imperialism is a crucial step, which all countries have to make at some point. This can mainly be seen in China.
China had rigorously controlled trade with other nations for an extensive period. Chinese rulers had controlled the foreign trade with a firm hand because it was in the benefaction of China. China sold tea and many other things to European merchants for silver and gold in return. This was known the balance of trade; they would export more than they import. In 1973, British desired an increase in trading rights but emperor Qianlong refused. Sometime after this demand, China has reached a period of decline. Then the Industrial Revolution had created a need for extended markets in European goods.
In the 1800’s, Western nations began to use their rising power and glory to their advantage. They used this power to spread their influence over Asia along with the rest of the world. British traders discovered they could make money by trading opium for Chinese tea. In the 1830’s, British merchant ships were arriving off the coast of China. Ready to sell to the Chinese the British came with ships full of opium.
The Chinese population became fixated on opium, and silver began to vanish in China in exchange for the new drug. This vast exchange had begun to disrupt the Chinese economy. The imperialism that the British were bringing on the Chinese people made thei...