1. What was the initial Chinese attitude toward the Jesuits, and why did it change over time?
2. What was the British attitude toward the Chinese people and Chinese values?
3. What role did religion play in rebellions against the Qing?
Chapter 17: Asia in Transition
Section 2
free trade: Practice based on the belief that government should not restrict or interfere with international trade
Opium War: Conflict between China and Britain that arose due to Britain’s export of opium to China
Treaty of Nanjing: Treaty following the Opium War in which China gave Hong Kong to Britain and opened ports to British trade
extraterritoriality: Exemption of foreigners from the laws of the country in which they live or do business
“unequal” treaties: Trade treaties that China signed under pressure of invasion, giving Western powers trade benefits
Taiping Rebellion: Revolt in China from 1850 to 1864, led by Hong Xiuquan who, influenced by Christian teachings, declared a mission to establish a new dynasty
1. At first the Chinese emperor welcomed the Jesuits because their
knowledge of astronomy helped the emperor predict eclipses and
times for planting. However, as the Jesuits gained more power,
they aroused jealousy and suspicion. Qing rulers worried that
Chinese Catholics would obey the pope, not their emperor.
2. The British viewed the Chinese people and Chinese values as
inferior to British people and British values. They ignored the
needs of the Chinese and were interested only in wealth and trade.
3. Rebellions against the Qing were motivated, at least in part, by
Christian and Muslim teachings.