Question

In order to gain an economic foothold in China, the British,

A. allied with Japan to attack China and take over seaports
B. illegally traded opium with the Chinese
C. supported the Communist party in exchange for access to markets and trade
D. traded exclusively with the Japanese in Asia, hoping to attract Chinese interests
Please select the best answer from the choices provided

Answer 1

B. illegally traded opium with the Chinese

During the 19th century, the British engaged in the illegal opium trade with China, which played a significant role in their efforts to gain economic influence in the region. This led to the Opium Wars between China and Britain, ultimately resulting in the British gaining territorial and economic concessions in China.