What was the major consequence of the Opium Wars?

The major consequence of the Opium Wars was the Treaty of Nanking, which resulted in increased British influence in China. This treaty, signed in 1842 after the First Opium War, marked the beginning of what is often referred to as the "Century of Humiliation" for China. As part of the treaty terms, China was compelled to cede Hong Kong to Britain, open several ports to British trade, and grant extraterritorial rights to British citizens.

The Opium Wars originated from British trade practices that included the opium trade, which created significant social and economic problems in China. The conflict highlighted China's weakened state in the face of Western powers and set a precedent for future unequal treaties that further diminished Chinese sovereignty. This shift not only altered the balance of power in East Asia but also established a period of significant foreign dominance over Chinese affairs, particularly for British interests.

In contrast, the other options refer to significantly different historical events. The Treaty of Tordesillas was related to the division of new territories between Spain and Portugal in the Americas, while the Treaty of Versailles was a peace agreement that concluded World War I. The independence of India from British rule came much later and was a result of different circumstances, primarily the