Identify and describe trends of early China’s contact with the outside world. Explain the major issues relating to the development of Western imperialism in China in the nineteenth century.

This should treat some important issue in China’s relations with the world during the late imperial period 1500-1900

Course Description, Prerequisites, and Corequisites:
This course provides an interpretive account of China’s interactions with the world before 19th century. The
course will concentrate on the political, economic and social impacts of foreigners on China and China’s
responses to the Western challenge. While chronological, we will follow a thematic approach. Major themes
include China’s early contact with the West, Britain’s opium trade and opium wars with China, the
establishment of the treaty systems in China by the Western powers, the confrontations between the Chinese
and the western missionaries, the powers’ division of spheres of influence in China, and the change of
western image of China in the nineteenth century.
This is an introductory course open to all students; no prior knowledge of Chinese history is required or
expected. Class meetings are scheduled for four hours each week. The general pattern will be lectures, group-
discussion and film/video/library research. The course will have discussion sessions once a week, following
the lecture topics and reading materials.

Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to
1. Identify and describe trends of early China’s contact with the outside world.
2. Explain the major issues relating to the development of Western imperialism in China in the nineteenth century.
3. Compare and assess various debates and interpretations concerning the history of interaction between China and the Western powers.
4. Analyze the causes and effects of historical conflicts in the relationship between China and the West.
5. Outline and assess the historical and cultural factors before the 20th century that impact recent
events and relationships in the Asian region and beyond.
6. Lead group discussions and articulate their viewpoints clearly.
7. Collect, interpret, evaluate, and cite information from academic references and sources.