The historical significance of the Opium Wars in China (1839-1842 and 1856-1860) lies in its profound effect on China’s sovereignty and international relations. The British, seeking to balance trade deficits caused by tea imports, began exporting opium, resulting in widespread addiction in China. The Chinese government's attempts to halt opium trade led to military conflicts with Britain. The resulting treaties, particularly the Treaty of Nanking, opened several ports to British trade, ceded Hong Kong to Britain, and undermined Chinese sovereignty. This marked the beginning of the "Century of Humiliation," where foreign powers exerted significant influence over China’s affairs and contributed to internal strife and reform movements.