Britain occupied Hong Kong in the 19th century as a result of the First Opium War (1839-1842). This war was fought between Britain and China over the issue of opium trade, which was illegal in China but profitable for Britain. After China's defeat in the war, the Treaty of Nanking was signed in 1842, which ceded Hong Kong Island to Britain.
Yes, Hong Kong was considered an important strategic location for Britain due to its natural harbor and proximity to China. It allowed Britain to have a foothold in East Asia and expand its influence in the region.
Britain occupied Hong Kong for a total of 156 years, from 1842 to 1997. During this time, Hong Kong became a major trading port and developed into a significant economic and financial center in Asia.
Yes, the British occupation had a significant impact on the culture and society of Hong Kong. British influence can be seen in the architecture, education system, legal system, and language, which is a mix of English and Cantonese. The British also introduced new technologies and industries, such as the railway and banking, which helped modernize Hong Kong.
Britain handed over Hong Kong to China on July 1, 1997, marking the end of its 156-year-long occupation. This event is known as the "handover" or "return" of Hong Kong and it was agreed upon in the Sino-British Joint Declaration in 1984. Hong Kong became a Special Administrative Region of China under the principle of "One Country, Two Systems."