Transforming Global Power Relations

These flashcards cover key events and concepts related to global power relations from the lecture on world history, focusing on industrialization, trade patterns, military conflicts, and socio-political changes.

Industrial Revolution

A period of tremendous economic growth that enabled the exploitation of global commercial potential and generated cheaper industrial goods and weaponry.

Opium Trade

Clandestine trade initiated by British officials in India where opium was produced for export to China, leading to economic instability due to a decreased flow of hard currency into China.

First Opium War

A conflict that began in 1839 when the Qing Emperor banned opium sales, leading to a British declaration of war and culminated in the Treaty of Nanjing in 1842.

Treaty of Nanjing

The treaty that ended the First Opium War, opening additional trading ports, transferring Hong Kong to British control, and establishing free trade throughout China.

Century of Humiliation

A period of increased foreign exploitation and loss of sovereignty for China, marked by treaties granting privileges to various Western powers.

Meiji Restoration

A pivotal event in Japanese history leading to modernization through adopting Western political and military practices and the abolition of the samurai class.

Self-Strengthening Movement

An attempt by some Qing officials to modernize China and preserve Qing rule by focusing on heavy industry, infrastructure, and military.

Taiping Rebellion

A massive civil war in China from 1850 to 1864, believed to be the most destructive war in human history before World War I, influenced by the weakening of Qing authority.

Shogunate

The historical government structure in Japan that was overthrown during the civil unrest leading to the Meiji Restoration.

Economic Access

The objective pursued by Western powers, especially in opening Japan to foreign trade, following similar patterns as in China.