Describe the effect of Westerners on the Chinese economy and society.
Chinese society, mid-1800s
http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/main_pop/kpct/kp_imperialism.htm
http://www.flowofhistory.com/units/eme/18/FC124
The effect of Westerners on the Chinese economy and society can be understood through two major historical periods: the Opium Wars and the Open Door Policy.
1. Opium Wars:
During the 19th century, Western countries, particularly Britain, had a significant impact on China's economy and society:
a. Economic Impact:
- The British East India Company exploited China's demand for goods like tea and silk to their advantage. However, they faced a trade imbalance, as the Chinese government only accepted silver in exchange for their products.
- In response, the British East India Company smuggled opium into China, resulting in addiction and a drain of silver from China. This led to the outbreak of the First Opium War (1839-1842) and the subsequent signing of the Treaty of Nanjing in 1842.
- The Treaty of Nanjing imposed unequal terms on China, including the cession of Hong Kong, opening of five more ports for trade, extraterritoriality for Westerners, and the payment of a large indemnity. This further disrupted the Chinese economy.
b. Social Impact:
- The influx of opium led to widespread social issues like addiction, crime, and a decline in productivity.
- Missionaries, encouraged by Western powers, started to spread Christianity in China, which challenged traditional Chinese beliefs and values.
- The events of the Opium Wars and the treaty system imposed by the Western powers humiliated the Chinese government and triggered a sense of national weakness, leading to domestic unrest and calls for reforms.
2. Open Door Policy:
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Western powers continued to exert their influence in China with the implementation of the Open Door Policy:
a. Economic Impact:
- The Open Door Policy, proposed by the United States, called for equal trading rights and access to the Chinese market for all countries.
- This policy allowed Western companies to freely exploit Chinese resources, leading to increased foreign investments in industries such as railways, mining, and manufacturing.
- While these foreign investments brought modernization and technology to China, they also led to the exploitation of workers and unequal distribution of wealth.
b. Social Impact:
- The introduction of Western ideas, practices, and technology brought a mixture of positive and negative effects to Chinese society.
- Western educational institutions were established, which contributed to the spread of modern knowledge and the growth of China's intellectual class.
- However, the clash between traditional Chinese culture and Western customs also created social tensions and cultural conflicts.
In summary, the Western impact on the Chinese economy and society, particularly through the Opium Wars and the Open Door Policy, involved economic exploitation, social disruptions, the spread of Christianity and Western ideas, and a mix of positive and negative social changes. Understanding this historical context is crucial to comprehending the complexities of China's interaction with the West.