Third China War — VC Recipients

The Third China War, also known as the Second Opium War (1856–1860), was a conflict between Britain and France against China’s Qing Dynasty. It was sparked by disputes over trade, diplomatic rights, and the treatment of foreign nationals, particularly following the boarding of a British-registered ship, the Arrow, by Chinese officials. Britain and France used the incident to demand expanded rights and access in China.

The war saw several battles, including the capture of Canton, the Taku Forts, and the occupation of Beijing. The conflict ended with the Treaty of Tientsin (1858) and the Convention of Peking (1860), which forced China to open more ports to Western trade, legalize the opium trade, allow foreign legations in Beijing, and cede territory. The war further weakened the Qing Dynasty and expanded Western imperial influence in China.