I'm having trouble with a world history question - help

Question

In 1793, the Emperor Qianlong of China wrote to George III to refuse to open trade "...we possess all things," wrote the Emperor. "I see no value on objects strange or ingenious [cleverly inventive] and have no use for your countries' manufactures."

A. What reason did Emperor Qianlong give for refusing to open trade with England?

B. Based on current events, do the Chinese today agree with Emperor Qianlong's statements about trade? Explain your answer in complete sentences.

Thanks so much! I'm having a lot of trouble with this one.

Answer 1

A. During this time period China was practicing isolationism. They really did have everything they needed. Later when they did open up trade opium almost ruined the country thanks to the British.

B. No, China is a major trading power today. Almost all our products come from them. The fact that the Olympics are being held there shows they are opened to others. However make fifty years ago China was not as open because of Communism with Mao.

Answer 2

I can only answer question A> he was known as :a unrelentingly conservative and a sinocentric attitude.

Answer 3

A. The Emperor thought China was self-sufficient in all things, including natural resources and manufactured goods.  (The exception he did not note was silver, which became the item traded for opium; till the 19th century Opium wars.)

B. Probably the Chinese wouldn't agree today, since the country is short on natural resources - especially oil, and some metals.  Despite all the cheap dollar-store stuff she sells, she is now an important market for US and Canadian trade in manufactured goods, too.

China is also badly in need of TECHNOLOGY and expertise in manufacturing as well...For instance, China has not been able yet to produce a car that's suitable for the American market.

Answer 4

During the Ming dynasty the emperor built an unbelievably large fleet that moved through Southeast Asia, India, Africa, and actually circumnavigated the world, stirring up much trade and less desirable interaction.

This was aired on a recent PBS show, I believe it was called The Great Fleet.  It was a massive venture and happened in the 1600s.

But the whole thing was contrary to the older heads who urged that Confucian tradition be followed and that they stay away from empire building and live with what they had.  It seems like there was always a wise person who could see the future, but the bullies carry the day.      The fleet caried a 35,000 man army.

Under Mao, there was a Marxist empire, which interacted with with similarly-minded people.



But with globalism, China and the West have relaxed the streeses that prevented economic cooperation.  The Olympic games could hardly have been imagined in the China of only a few years ago.  Perhaps globalism and enhanced communication (internet) will provide an avenue towards a less violent future.