IGNOU BOOK | Htisory of China C. 1840-1978 | BHIE-141 | ENGLISH MEDIUM

Product Overview & Details

History of China, c. 1840–1978

The History of China from about 1840 to 1978 covers one of the most dramatic periods in Chinese history. It begins with the weakening of the Qing dynasty and increasing Western influence, continues through revolution, civil war, and the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, and ends with the beginning of economic reforms under Deng Xiaoping.

1. China and Western Imperialism (c. 1840–1911)

In the early nineteenth century, China was ruled by the Qing dynasty. European powers increasingly sought access to Chinese markets. Britain’s trade in opium led to the First Opium War (1839–1842). China’s defeat resulted in the Treaty of Nanjing, which forced China to open treaty ports, grant Britain Hong Kong, and accept unequal trading arrangements.

China suffered further defeats in the Second Opium War (1856–1860). Western powers and Japan gained increasing economic and political privileges. These developments contributed to the weakening of Qing authority.

China also faced major internal rebellions, particularly the Taiping Rebellion (1850–1864), which caused enormous loss of life and further weakened the government. Later, the Boxer Uprising (1899–1901) reflected growing opposition to foreign influence.

Japan's victory over China in the Sino-Japanese War (1894–1895) demonstrated China's weakness and resulted in Japan gaining Taiwan and other concessions.