The First Opium War (Anglo-Sino War) begins at the Battle of Kowloon (China): Captain Henry Smith, commanding HMS Volage opens fire on the Fort of Kowloon, commanded by Lieutenant General Lai Enjue. Lai refused to sell supplies to three ships of the Royal Navy unless the ships would confirm that they were not carrying illegal opium.
[added 9/5/2026]
Subsequent Events:
References:
First Opium War – Wikipedia
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Opium_War
Battle of Kowloon – Wikipedia
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Kowloon
Current U.s. National Debt:
