The National Army Museum’s account dates the First China War to 1839–1842.
Chronological context#
Its account describes British-Indian forces fighting Imperial China in a conflict connected with the opium trade. A reference’s chosen starting point should be retained when comparing chronologies.
Evaluating an account#
Check whether another account dates a preparatory crisis, military hostilities or a treaty. Do not silently combine different conventions. Distinguish the first war from a later conflict, and identify the specific treaty before discussing its provisions.
Scope#
These reading questions are editorial suggestions. This short introduction does not invent quotations or claim to settle every historical interpretation.