Two Sources on China and Trade
In a letter to King George III of England, Qing emperor Qianlong explains his refusal of the king’s gifts andrequest for trade.
“Swaying the wide world, I have but one aim in view, to maintain a perfect governance and to fulfill the duties of the State: strange and costly objects do not interest me … Our dynasty’s majestic virtue has penetrated unto every country under Heaven, and Kings of all nations have offered their costly tribute by land and sea. As your Ambassador can see for himself, we possess all things. I set no value on objects strange or ingenious [clever], and have no use for your country’s manufactures [products].”
QIANLONG
—from a letter to King George III
Lord George Macartney led Great Britain’s first attempt to expand trade relations with China. The Macartney Mission of 1792–1794 ended in failure.
“They receive us … with the highest distinction [and] show us every external mark of favour … Yet, in less than a couple months, they plainly discover that they wish us gone, refuse our requests without reserve …, and dismiss us dissatisfied … I must endeavour [try] to unravel this mystery if I can. Perhaps they have given way to impressions which they could not resist, but are ashamed to confess; perhaps they begin to find their mistake, and wish to make amends.”
LORD MACARTNEY
—from an entry in Macartney’s diary
