🌍 Setting the Scene: Picture this - an ancient and proud civilization, China, having its first encounters with the modern, industrial West. And it didn't go well for China.

• Self-view Shattered: China thought of itself as THE superior nation. But post-1840, that changed.
• What Happened?: Britain, wanting to keep trading tea with China but tired of paying in silver, decided to sell opium in exchange. China, not being too happy about its citizens getting addicted, tried to shut the trade down.
• Outcome: China got crushed in wars against Britain (they weren't ready for industrial age warfare).
• Unequal Treaties: These were the "sorry-you-lost-now-sign-this" treaties that opened China to foreign control. Not a fun time for China.
• Real-world example: Imagine someone coming into your home, taking over your TV and fridge, and saying they get to make the rules now. Not cool, right? That's how China felt.

• Missionaries in China: Post 1860, loads of foreign missionaries came to China. They were like, “Hey, have you heard the good news?”
• China's Solution: The "self-strengthening movement" (basically, "let's get industrial and fend for ourselves").
• Did it Work?: Nope. Foreigners tightened their grip even more, especially after China's loss to Japan in 1895.

Real-world example: It's like trying to build a treehouse to keep out bullies, but they just climb up anyway and kick you out.