Primary Source Analysis
Carefully and critically read the text of two primary sources (Qianlong Emperors Edicts I & II, 1793 and Treaty of Nanking, 1842) and answer one of the following questions.
Attention: This exam is about reading and interpreting primary sources. Use the text of the two sources (the Edicts I & II and Treaty of Nanking), NOT the INTRODUCTION to the texts, to answer the question. For any vital facts figures in your answer, cite the relevant paragraph/article number of the primary source. Cite your source at the end of the sentence (for example, Edict II, para # 2 or Article IV).
Each text has an introduction preceding it, which provides the historical context in which the document was written. For your analysis, use the original text of the documents (Edicts I & II and Treaty of Nanking). Write as precisely and clearly as possible.
Answer the question in about 2-3 double-spaced pages
Answer any ONE of the following questions.
1. What do Qianlong Emperors Edicts (1793) tell us about Britains ambitions to expand its trade in China and the Chinese response to it? (about 2 pages) Why did the Macartney Mission fail to achieve its goals? (about 1 page)
2. What does the Treaty of Nanking, which concluded the first Opium War in 1842, tell us about Britains commercial ambitions in China in the early 19th century? (about 1 pages) What did Britain achieve by this treaty and why was Britain able to force China to agree to the terms of this treaty?
