What were the causes of the Second Opium War?

The causes of the Second Opium War were primarily related to the tensions between China and foreign powers, particularly Britain and France. The main causes include:

1. The failure of the Treaty of Nanjing: The Treaty of Nanjing, which ended the First Opium War, did not fully address the issues between China and the foreign powers. This led to continued conflicts and disputes.

2. Opium trade and addiction: The illegal opium trade from British India to China continued to thrive, leading to widespread addiction and social problems in China. The Chinese government's efforts to suppress the trade further strained relations with foreign powers.

3. Violation of Chinese sovereignty: The Chinese government's attempts to enforce its laws and regulations on foreign traders were seen as a violation of their extraterritorial rights. This led to clashes and increased tensions.

4. The Arrow Incident: The British ship Arrow, flying a Chinese flag, was seized by Chinese authorities in 1856. This incident was used as a pretext by Britain to launch military action against China.

5. Expansionist ambitions: Foreign powers, particularly Britain and France, had territorial and economic ambitions in China. They saw the Second Opium War as an opportunity to further their interests and gain more concessions from China.

Overall, the causes of the Second Opium War can be attributed to the unresolved issues from the First Opium War, the opium trade, violations of Chinese sovereignty, and the expansionist ambitions of foreign powers.