Paper 3, Section 7: Challenges to traditional East Asian societies (1700–1868) The Chinese tribute system and western trade missions

British East India Company

Founded in 1600, a private company that held a monopoly on trade in the East Indies, accumulating wealth and power, and establishing a military force.

Canton

Historically known as Guangzhou, an important port city where the British East India Company operated, facilitating trade between Western merchants and local Chinese traders.

Canton System

A trade framework established by the Qing Dynasty in 1760 to regulate foreign trade, restricting all foreign vessels to Canton.

Kowtow

A traditional Chinese practice of a deep bow with the forehead touching the ground, signifying respect and submission.

Lady Hughes Incident

An event in 1784 where a British ship inadvertently killed two Chinese bystanders in Canton, resulting in the execution of a crew member to de-escalate tensions.

Macartney Embassy

A British mission (1792-1793) aimed at improving relations with the Qing Empire that was ultimately rejected by the Qing Emperor.

Mercantilism

Economic policy where nations maximize exports and minimize imports, contributing to Britain's trade deficit with China.

Middle Kingdom

A term reflecting China's self-perception as the center of the cultural and economic world.

Opium

A highly addictive substance used historically for both medical and recreational purposes, notable for being shipped by the British East India Company from India to China.

Qing Foreign Relations

Characterized by the lack of a structured Ministry of Foreign Affairs, limiting diplomatic engagements with other nations.

Terranova Incident

A 1821 event involving an American crew member and a fatal accident with a Chinese woman that heightened tensions between the Qing and Western powers.

Tribute Missions

Key methods by which China engaged with neighboring states, granting access to trade and cultural resources.

Western Attitudes Toward China

Initially favorable in the early 1700s but shifted to disdain due to legal incidents and perceptions of outdated Chinese policies.