Battle of Canton (March 1841) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids First Battle of Canton
Part of First Opium War
Map of the naval operations at Canton, 18 March 1841
Date 18 March 1841 Location Canton, Guangdong, China Result British victory
Belligerents
United Kingdom British East India Company	Qing China
Commanders and leaders
Charles Elliot James Bremer Thomas Herbert	Qishan Yang Fang
Strength
9 ships	5 forts
Casualties and losses
7 killed	400 casualties 123 guns captured
The official Chinese commander was Yishan, as a substitute for Qishan, but he had not reached Canton even by the time the battle ended.

The First Battle of Canton was a major fight between British and Chinese forces. It took place in Canton, China, on March 18, 1841. This battle was an important part of the First Opium War. After the British won, they raised their flag over the British trading post in Canton. This victory also helped trade start again between Britain and China.

Why the Battle Happened

The First Opium War was a conflict mainly about trade between Britain and China. After some fighting, an agreement was made in January 1841. This agreement was called the Convention of Chuenpi. One of its main points was that Hong Kong would become part of Great Britain.

Emperor's Reaction

The Chinese emperor, Daoguang Emperor, was very angry about this agreement. He was so upset that he fired his top official, Qishan. Qishan had been the Imperial Commissioner in charge of dealing with the British.

New Leaders Arrive

The emperor then chose his nephew, Yishan, to take Qishan's place. Yishan was given the title "General-pacifier of the Rebellious." Two other officials, Lungwan and Yang Fang, were appointed to help him.

On March 20, 1841, the main British representative, Charles Elliot, announced that trade would start again. He made this announcement after talking with Yang Fang. The new main Chinese leaders, Lungwan and Yishan, did not actually arrive in Canton until April 14.