Capture of Chusan (1841) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Second Capture of Chusan
Part of the First Opium War
Second taking of Chusan
Date 29 September – 1 October 1841 Location Zhoushan, Zhejiang, China Result British victory
Belligerents
United Kingdom British East India Company	Qing China
Commanders and leaders
Hugh Gough William Parker	Ge Yunfei  ☠
Strength
13 ships 2,607 troops	Unknown
Casualties and losses
2 killed 27 wounded	1,500 casualties 136 guns captured

The Second Capture of Chusan (Chinese: 第二次定海之戰) was an important battle during the First Opium War. It happened on October 1, 1841. British forces took control of the city of Dinghai. Dinghai was the main city of the Chusan (Zhoushan) islands. These islands are located off the eastern coast of China.

What Happened at Chusan?

The city of Dinghai was a strong, walled city. About 30,000 people lived there. Chinese forces, led by a commander named Keo, defended the city. The British had much stronger forces. They attacked from the sea.

The Battle

The British attack was quick and very one-sided. The British 55th Foot regiment was involved. They quickly defeated the Chinese defenders. The city fell to the British forces.

The Outcome

The British won the battle. They captured many weapons from the Chinese. This included 100 iron guns and 36 brass cannons. They also took 540 "gingalls." These were heavy muskets or light guns. They could be turned around easily. The British had very few losses. Only 2 British soldiers were killed. Another 28 were wounded.

Images for kids

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  Map showing how the British captured Dinghai in 1841.

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  A painting showing the attack on the hills of Chusan.