Activity Overview
The story of European and Chinese relations in the 18th and 19th century is important to understand, especially when connecting it to events later on in the century. The struggles of China at the hands of a very ambitious Europe set the groundwork for modern relations between these regions. In this activity, students will create a timeline that describes how China became a victim of European Empire-building and how they responded.
The timeline should address the following questions:
- What role did opium play?
- What were the Taiping Uprising and the Boxer Rebellion?
- What is a “sphere of influence”?
For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.
Imperialism in China Timeline Suggested Events
- 1815 - Britain Imports Opium into China
- 1839 - Opium War
- 1864 - Taiping Rebellion
- 1890 - Spheres of Influence
- 1900 - Boxer Rebellion
Extended Activity
Extend this activity by asking students to connect China’s eventual adoption of a communist political ideology with the events of this timeline. They should be able to understand how events connect to others and even directly identify some cause and effects of imperialism on the adoption of communism.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a timeline detailing the major events leading to Imperialism in China.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify important wars, events, and actions, and type them into the titles of each cell.
- Describe the wars, events, and actions in the description box.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events and Dates | The events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. The dates provided are correct. | Most of the events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. Most of the dates provided are correct. | Some of the events chosen for the timeline are significant. There may be missing events, or events that are irrelevant. Too many dates may be incorrect. |
| Explanations/Descriptions | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are accurate and provide insight into the significance of the events. | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are mostly accurate and attempt to provide insight into the significance of the events. | There are several glaring inaccuracies in the explanations or descriptions of the events. There may be little or no insight int the significance of the events, or the information provided may be too limited or missing. |
| English Conventions | There are 0-2 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 3-4 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 5 or more mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. |
Activity Overview
The story of European and Chinese relations in the 18th and 19th century is important to understand, especially when connecting it to events later on in the century. The struggles of China at the hands of a very ambitious Europe set the groundwork for modern relations between these regions. In this activity, students will create a timeline that describes how China became a victim of European Empire-building and how they responded.
The timeline should address the following questions:
- What role did opium play?
- What were the Taiping Uprising and the Boxer Rebellion?
- What is a “sphere of influence”?
For an alternative to the timeline layout, have students create a timeline poster to incorporate into a presentation or gallery walk. You can add more than one template to this assignment to give students lots of options and adjust the instructions accordingly.
Imperialism in China Timeline Suggested Events
- 1815 - Britain Imports Opium into China
- 1839 - Opium War
- 1864 - Taiping Rebellion
- 1890 - Spheres of Influence
- 1900 - Boxer Rebellion
Extended Activity
Extend this activity by asking students to connect China’s eventual adoption of a communist political ideology with the events of this timeline. They should be able to understand how events connect to others and even directly identify some cause and effects of imperialism on the adoption of communism.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a timeline detailing the major events leading to Imperialism in China.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify important wars, events, and actions, and type them into the titles of each cell.
- Describe the wars, events, and actions in the description box.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 25 Points | Beginning 17 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Events and Dates | The events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. The dates provided are correct. | Most of the events chosen for the timeline are significant and important to the overall understanding of the time period. Most of the dates provided are correct. | Some of the events chosen for the timeline are significant. There may be missing events, or events that are irrelevant. Too many dates may be incorrect. |
| Explanations/Descriptions | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are accurate and provide insight into the significance of the events. | The explanations or descriptions provided for each event are mostly accurate and attempt to provide insight into the significance of the events. | There are several glaring inaccuracies in the explanations or descriptions of the events. There may be little or no insight int the significance of the events, or the information provided may be too limited or missing. |
| English Conventions | There are 0-2 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 3-4 mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. | There are 5 or more mistakes in spelling, grammar, and mechanics. |
How Tos about Historical Timeline of Imperialism in China
How to Facilitate a Classroom Debate on Imperialism in China
Encourage critical thinking by organizing a classroom debate where students discuss the positive and negative impacts of imperialism in China. This approach helps students engage deeply with historical perspectives while practicing respectful discourse and evidence-based argumentation.
Choose engaging debate topics related to imperialism in China.
Select topics that spark discussion, such as “Was foreign intervention in China more helpful or harmful?” or “Did imperialism accelerate or hinder China’s modernization?” Clear topics help students focus their research and opinions.
Assign student roles and provide background resources.
Divide students into groups representing different viewpoints (e.g., Qing officials, European traders, Chinese reformers). Share articles, timelines, or videos so each group can prepare strong arguments. Roles boost engagement and empathy for historical figures.
Set debate rules and structure speaking times.
Establish clear time limits for opening statements, rebuttals, and closing arguments. Fair guidelines ensure every voice is heard and keep the debate focused.
Guide reflection and connect debate points to modern contexts.
After the debate, lead a class discussion or quick-write about how imperialism’s legacy still shapes global relations today. Encourage students to draw connections between history and current events. This deepens understanding and relevance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Historical Timeline of Imperialism in China
What were the main events of imperialism in China during the 19th century?
The main events of imperialism in China included the Opium Wars, the Taiping Rebellion, the establishment of Spheres of Influence by foreign powers, and the Boxer Rebellion. These events had a lasting impact on China's sovereignty and future political changes.
How did the opium trade affect China's relationship with Europe?
The opium trade led to widespread addiction in China and economic imbalance, sparking the Opium Wars with Britain. These conflicts weakened China’s control, forced unequal treaties, and deepened foreign influence in the region.
What is a 'sphere of influence' in the context of imperialism in China?
A sphere of influence refers to a region where a foreign power had special economic and political privileges, often at the expense of China’s sovereignty. In the late 1800s, several European nations and Japan established these spheres in China.
How can students create an effective timeline of imperialism in China?
To make an effective timeline, students should identify key events (like the Opium Wars, Taiping and Boxer Rebellions), briefly describe each event, and use visuals to illustrate impacts. Options include traditional timelines or creative poster presentations for gallery walks.
How did imperialism contribute to the rise of communism in China?
Imperialism led to social unrest, economic hardship, and weakened traditional authority in China. These conditions paved the way for new political ideas, including communism, as people sought solutions to foreign control and inequality.
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