Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
several centuries. As Macau developed into the greatest port in the East, it also became a
base for Jesuit missionaries; it was later a haven for persecuted Japanese Christians. While
Christianity was not a great success in China, it made local headway, as can be seen today in
the numerous Catholic churches in Macau's historic centre.
The British arrive
The British established their presence in the area after Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty
opened trade on a limited basis in Guangzhou (Canton) at the end of the 17th century. Trad-
ing began smoothly enough, but soon became subject to increasing restrictions, and all for-
eigners were faced with the attitude expressed by Emperor Qianlong at Britain's first at-
tempt to open direct trade with China in 1793: 'We possess all things,' said the emperor, 'I
set no value on objects strange or ingenious, and have no use for your country's manufac-
tures.'
