The Opium Wars: Britain’s Trade‑and‑Force Reckoning in China

An exploration of how British commercial interests over tea and silver drove an opium trade that precipitated conflict with China. The episode examines primary evidence – from Lin Zexu’s confiscations to naval blockades – alongside historiographical debates about motives, casualties, and the unequal treaties that followed. It also traces long‑term consequences for Britain’s imperial policy and for China’s national narrative of humiliation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices