Critical Essay on Qianlong's Letter to George III

Introduction

The author of the document was the Qianlong emperor Xin Jue Luo, Hongli who died at 89 years (1711-1799) was the fourth son Yongzheng (Benjamin, 2005). During his reign, it was the peak of feudalism in China, but unluckily the emperor declined because of his old age, issues related to extortion that resulted in a poor administration and his occupation. It was during the late 18th century that significant changes occurred in economic policies, transport, and agriculture and manufacturing sectors in England majorly known as industrial revolution. The old dynasty of China was struggling to keep its policies and abolish maritime activities as well as practice closed-door procedures. Qianlong's Letter to George III was written in 1793 (Benjamin, 2005).

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It is connected to the Macartney embassy that was based in England who was sent by the king of Britain, George III considering the directions issued by George Macartney. The main concern was to discuss trade rights with the Qing court. The main concern on the Macartney embassy was to reduce the restrictions on trade systems that was enacted to European merchants in 1760 and discuss free trade associations with China because it was the major impediment to Britain's influence and triumph. Even though Qianlong was confident with the letter, China was not in a stable state during that time, and its population was steadily growing that resulted in food shortage. Moreover, it was also experiencing high levels of corruption and bureaucracy. Many citizens lived in absolute poverty, but officials lived a lavish life that raised concern. Ultimately, it turned out to be a war between China and Britain to establish whether trade could happen between the two countries.

Qianlong has often been condemned of his biases in engaging more with the West and involving China more regarding modernization; this is seen when after Britain established an embassy in China by Lord George in 1793. It aimed to discuss the probability of China extending its trade opportunities in Britain. However, Qianlong opposed the impression of China opening their trade into Britain and subsequently to other countries worldwide. He stated that sending a representative to Britain to be credited in the celestial court and be in control of trade with China, he emphasizes that the request is contrary to the rule and cannot be allowed in any form. He argued that the foreign live at parking are required to conform to the laws of Qing and can never leave China, therefore are no privileges in controlling the trade with China because he claimed other nationals such as Italy and Portugal might exemplify the bad behavior if he accepts the pattern to Britain.

Conclusion

The letter was fundamentally vital because it showed a disagreement between two countries. The letter pointed the arguments of Qianlong and gave a detailed understanding about Qianlong emperor. A detailed analysis of the message coupled with historical events, a state that objects to connect with other countries in the continent become backward in development and ignorant like Qing dynasty, it can lack the power to compete effectively with Britain during the 18th century. However, the difference between Qing and Britain significantly increased as result industrialization. Therefore, countries that progress with historical flows end up being powerful and successful, or else they will be eliminated. The letter is vital to the current situations among countries with disputes to settle their woes, disagreements, and states should extend their trade policies.

References

Benjamin, I.S., (2005). Early Cultural Orientations, The World of Thought in Ancient China. United States of American, Harvard University Press.