Empires of Silver
In 3 episodes it is explained how silver was at one times worth more than gold. China used silver as their currency and the west had to pay in silver for Chinese goods. This angered the British and sought a commodity that the Chinese would buy. China did not covet any goods that the west had, except one. This led to a calamity in China and led to wars.
- 2018-2019
- 1 season
- Documentary
In 3 episodes it is explained how silver was at one times worth more than gold. China used silver as their currency and the west had to pay in silver for Chinese goods. This angered the British and sought a commodity that the Chinese would buy. China did not covet any goods that the west had, except one. This led to a calamity in China and led to wars.
Season 1 Episode Guide
3 Episodes 2019
Episode 1
The Silver Rush
Discover what happens when the King of Spain's supply of silver meets the Emperor of China's tax demands. This remarkable story places China at the center of world trade 400 years ago, when China's demand for silver linked the world into one global network.
Episode 2
The China Trade
Modern China is the second-largest economy in the world, soon to be number one. But this isn't anything new for China, which has always been an economic and cultural power in the world; Emperor Qianlong ruled over the empire for over 50 years, which extended from the Himalayas to the Yellow Sea. Spin back just over two hundred years to see what "addictive" commodities are at the heart of China's trade with Great Britain.
Episode 3
A Clash of Empires
China grew in wealth from tax reform and international trade with silver that boosted its economy, but as the 19th century approached, the British Empire rose to be a challenger. The sun is setting on the Chinese Empire as the balance of power shifts between China and Great Britain. But China is once again the world's biggest importer of silver, thanks to new high-tech industries.