Question

Explain the significance of the quote below. Who wrote it? Who were they writing to? What did they say? Why is it important? Your answer should be two paragraphs. In the first, answer the previous questions. In the second, describe the significance in context with the broader history of imperialism.

Swaying the wide world, I have but one aim in view, namely, to maintain a perfect governance and to fulfill the duties of the State: strange and costly objects do not interest me. If I have commanded that the tribute offerings sent by you, O King, are to be accepted, this was solely in consideration for the spirit which prompted you to dispatch them from afar. 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, and have no use for your country's manufactures. This then is my answer to your request to appoint a representative at my Court, a request contrary to our dynastic usage, which would only result in inconvenience to yourself. I have expounded my wishes in detail and have commanded your tribute Envoys to leave in peace on their homeward journey. It behooves you, O King, to respect my sentiments and to display even greater devotion and loyalty in future, so that, by perpetual submission to our Throne, you may secure peace and prosperity for your country hereafter.

Answer 1

1. The letter is written by Emperor Quian Long to the king George 3 in 1973. For many centuries ago China had little intercourse with other countries. Many countries tried to enter commercial relationship with the China. But the selling and buying us quite unsatisfactory to other countries. The rules suggested by the Chinese Government were fickle and often danger for other lives. In 1793 England were decided to sent an ambassador to china for peaceful trade operation but China considered thr Emperor as a God, finally China allowed the Ambassador who bent his knee in front if the emperor and he act as a sovereign of the emperor.

Quian Long was an Chinese emperor ruled in China for much of the 18th century in those periods China were strong to resist and disdain the external influence. The quote mentioned in the question is a response letter to King George 3of Britain which is conveyed by the Lord Macartney for trade privileges.

2. Significance of letter in relation with history of imperialism

Imperialism means a policy, practices or advocacy of extendinv power mostly in direct form by taking over the terriotires or the economic or political control over territories or people. In othet words it is the extending of rule or authority by an emperor or the foreign countries on another country. In this letter it says about other countries wish to become an imperialist over China. China refused to give a liberal trading and other operation inside the state. The primary motive of British Imperialist is the economic gain.