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The Opium War

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The Opium War

By: Brian Inglis
Narrated by: Nigel Patterson
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About this listen

1839. Trade is the stalwart of the British Empire. China threatens Britain's Opium trade. Britain and China go to war.

When Britain sent troops to compel the Chinese to accept imports of opium, they opened what is argued to be one of the most disgraceful chapters in the history of the Empire.

How did the situation arise? How did opium exports become so crucial to the British economy? How did the British come to be as addicted to opium revenue as the Chinese were to the drug itself?

Brian Inglis gives the answers to these and other questions in this meticulously researched study of The Opium War. Shocking, shaming, but fascinating throughout.

©1976 Brian Inglis (P)2021 Tantor Asia China Military Imperialism War British Empire
All stars
Most relevant
I really wanted to know about but because it's sad content and repetive recollection of similar or identical acts of bad faith it became a boring listen and it shouldn't have. A little disappointed.

Excellent Research but not an excellent listen

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I first heard of the Opium Wars from a Chinese friend who assured me that it still rankles and colours their attitude to the West to this day.
Very enlightening and well narrated.

Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap

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This book presents a good insight into the underlying causes of the opium war and the motivations of the principle British protagonists.

A great little work on the opium war.

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Worthwhile and insightful. Bizarre part of history. Far more in-depth than Wikipedia, so if you enjoy history in detail, particularly Victorian history, than this is worth it. Nigel Patterson's narration drew me to thus book based on his previous efforts, and he didn't disappoint again.

Worthwhile listen

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The Opium War(s) is such a fascinating topic and no doubt the depth of research and detail in this book exemplary. Sadly though, historical accuracy does not lead to an easy or enjoyable storyline… glad i finished all nine hours and took in a lot in on the way, just wish it had been written in a more interesting manner.

Too much information… not enough story

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