British Assault on Barrier Forts at Canton
October 23rd, 1856
October 23rd, 1856

How Long Ago?
168 years, 4 months, 20 days ago
Location
Canton, China
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Second Opium War
People
- Michael Seymour
- Harry Parkes
- Ye Mingchen
Links & References
- Second Opium War
- Ye Mingchen
- Harry Parkes (diplomat)
- United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
- Michael Seymour (Royal Navy officer, born 1802)
- Battle of Canton (1856)
Tags
British Assault on Barrier Forts at Canton
British Rear-Admiral Michael Seymour, prompted by Consul Harry Parkes, launched an assault on the Barrier Forts near Canton due to dissatisfaction with the reparations offered by imperial commissioner Ye Mingchen for an alleged insult to a British vessel. This marked the first military engagement of the Second Opium War, escalating tensions between Britain and China.
Seymour acted on behalf of British interests.
The assault was the first military engagement.
Canton was crucial for British trade routes.
This marked a significant escalation in hostilities.
What Happened?
In October 1856, tensions between Britain and China escalated dramatically following disputes over trade and diplomatic protocols associated with the Opium Wars. The immediate trigger for the military engagement was the alleged insult to a British-owned vessel, leading to dissatisfaction with the reparations proposed by imperial commissioner Ye Mingchen. British officials, particularly Consul Harry Parkes, were intent on asserting British interests and maintaining a favorable position in the lucrative opium trade that had previously defined British-Chinese relations. On this day, Rear-Admiral Michael Seymour, commanding British naval forces, decided to take decisive action by launching an assault on the Barrier Forts located outside Canton (now Guangzhou). These forts were strategically important, as they guarded the entrance to the Pearl River and were pivotal in controlling maritime access to the city.
The engagement began with a bombardment by British naval forces, with ships positioned to deliver firepower against the fortifications. The assault demonstrated the military superiority of British forces, who were equipped with advanced naval artillery compared to the local defenses. The attack on the forts was not just a tactical maneuver; it was indicative of the broader imperial strategies employed by Britain to exert influence over China. The swift capture of the forts sent a strong signal to both Chinese officials and other foreign powers about Britain's military capabilities and intentions. This engagement would further entrench hostilities that had already begun with the First Opium War, ultimately leading to a protracted conflict that would reshape Sino-British relations. As the British continued their military campaign, it became clear that the stakes of the Second Opium War would transcend mere economic interests, touching upon issues of national pride and sovereignty for both nations.
Why Does it Matter?
The assault on the Barrier Forts marked a significant turning point in the Second Opium War, illustrating Britain's willingness to use military force to protect its interests in China. This event catalyzed broader conflict, leading to the eventual Treaty of Tientsin, which imposed unequal treaties on China, further opening it to Western trade and influence. The repercussions of these agreements would resonate for decades, influencing China's modernization efforts and its interactions with Western powers.
Discover More Historic Events from October 23rd
Myanmar Air Force Strikes Concert in Hpakant Township
A series of airstrikes by the Myanmar Air Force targeted a concert in Hpakant Township, Kachin State, resulting in the deaths of at least 80 individuals, including high-ranking officials of the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO). The concert, organized by KIO, aimed to celebrate an ethnic festival but ended in chaos and destruction due to the unexpected military action. Eyewitness accounts and reports highlighted a significant loss of life and serious injuries among attendees.
Continue ReadingXi Jinping Begins Third Term as Leader
Xi Jinping was elected as the General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party following the 20th National Congress held in Beijing. This event marked the beginning of his third consecutive term, solidifying his power within the party and country. The Central Committee convened to confirm the election, emphasizing Xi's significant influence in shaping China's domestic and foreign policy. The proceedings highlighted Xi's focus on core party values and strength in governance, resonating with the party's priorities moving forward.
Continue ReadingCeasefire Agreed in Second Libyan Civil War
The Second Libyan Civil War formally ended with a ceasefire agreement reached by the 5+5 Joint Libyan Military Commission. This agreement was a major step toward peace in Libya, culminating from extensive negotiations aimed at stabilizing the country after years of conflict. The commission, consisting of equal numbers from the conflicting governmental factions, facilitated dialogue that brought both sides together to agree on disarming and stopping hostilities. The signing of the ceasefire marked a pivotal moment in Libya's quest for unity and peace.
Continue ReadingEnd of the Marawi Siege Declared
Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana announced the end of the Siege of Marawi, signaling a significant victory against ISIS-affiliated militants. The siege, which began five months earlier, saw intense clashes in the city of Marawi, leaving destruction and casualties in its wake. This declaration aimed to restore normalcy and security in the region, highlighting the Philippines' commitment to combat extremism and restore peace.
Continue ReadingHurricane Patricia Strikes Mexico with Record Winds
Hurricane Patricia reached landfall on the Pacific coast of Mexico, registering the lowest sea-level pressure ever recorded in the Western Hemisphere, alongside the highest non-tornadic sustained winds. The hurricane caused significant devastation, resulting in the deaths of at least 13 individuals and damages exceeding $280 million. Its rapid intensification to an unprecedented category 5 storm prompted widespread evacuations and a state of emergency across the affected regions, including the states of Jalisco and Colima.
Continue ReadingLibyan National Transitional Council Declares Victory
On this day, the Libyan National Transitional Council (NTC) declared the end of the Libyan Civil War following the death of former leader Muammar Gaddafi. The NTC announced that the conflict, which had spanned several months, resulted in the successful rebellion against Gaddafi's four-decade rule. This declaration was made in the city of Benghazi, where the uprising initially began, indicating a significant turning point for Libya. The NTC aimed to establish a new government and restore security in the country while inviting international support for its rebuilding efforts.
Continue Reading