Chinese History Friday Lates: The Opium Wars

What is the significance of opium in Chinese History why were wars fought over it in the 1800's? Join Dr Chen to discover the history of opium in China in this Friday Late session.

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  • Start Date: 02 Oct 2026
    End Date: 02 Oct 2026
    Fri (Evening): 19:00 - 20:30
    Online
    Location: Online
    Duration: 1 session
    Course Code: HWH120
    Tutors:  Qiuyang Chen
    Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00
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In stock
SKU
246274
Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00

What is the course about?

We will explore the relationship between tea, silver, opium and opium addiction in China with European global trading and British colonial expansion; the 1839-42 and 1856-60 Opium Wars fought between the Chinese Qing-dynasty and Britain; and the acquisition of Hong Kong.

What will we cover?

  • Trading relations between Britain and China (with reference to tea)
  • The impact of opium on China
  • The Opium Wars

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Evaluate the reasons for the Opium Wars
• Assess the impact of opium and the Opium Wars on China

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an introductory lecture, and no prior knowledge of the subject is required. A good standard of English and a willingness to engage positively with both the subject and the class are the only essential requirements.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Through a one-off interactive evening lecture. There is no work outside of the class. Recommended reading will be provided if you wish to enhance your knowledge of the subject.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No other costs although you may wish to bring pen and paper for note taking.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Chinese History Friday Late: Women in China

Chinese History Friday Late: Reading Qing China through the Dream of the Red Chamber

 

Qiuyang Chen

Dr Qiuyang Chen received her PhD in history from the University of Warwick and specialises in Chinese history, oral history, and gender history. She currently works as a Research Associate at Loughborough University. Previously, she was a lecturer in Modern Chinese History at the University of Bristol and University of Birmingham. At City Lit, her classes explore topics including imperial and modern Chinese history, British-Sino relations, the history of Chinese diasporas, gender history, and oral history. In her leisure time, Qiuyang enjoys visiting museums and galleries, as well as outdoor activities such as rock-climbing, hiking and mountaineering.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.