China is one of the world's oldest civilizations. It has been a great power in the past and aspires to become a global superpower in the future. Today’s China it is still grappling with traumas that go back to the 19th century. Back then China sold silk, tea and porcelain to the British Empire, but hardly bought any British goods. To balance its trade with China, the British smuggled Indian opium into Chinese ports, which immediately increased demand for the drug and brought detrimental effects to the Chinese economy and the population.
The Emperor's protests did not prevent the British Empire from forcing through the legalization of opium in China after waging two wars. Japan also surprised and devastated the country in what is known as the Century of Humiliation. From then until today, China has focused on steering its destiny and disarming its rivals.
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