19th century China was one of the most important targets of the industrialized nations of that time. Interested in profiting indiscriminately, the so-called imperialist nations exploited any type of merchandise that could bring good returns. In this way, the vast Chinese consumer market has become a target for the commercialization of opium.
Opium, until the middle of the 18th century, was traditionally used by the Chinese for strictly medicinal purposes.
the British demanded that China pay compensation for material losses and for preventing free trade in the region. Upon failure to pay, England organized the warships and soldiers who participated in the First Opium War. Victorious, the British imposed on the Chinese the signing of the Nanjing Treaty (1842), which provided for the opening of five ports, the end of inspections, the payment of damages and the delivery of the island of Hong Kong.
In the years 1856 and 1858, the inspection of British vessels served as a pretext for two other Opium Wars to take place. Once again defeated, the Chinese were compelled to accept the conditions of the Treaty of Tientsin, which determined the definitive legalization of the commercialization of opium, the opening of ten other ports and the free performance of Christian missionaries in the country.
