Britain occupies Hong Kong

Background. The occupation occurred during the First Opium War, a conflict between the British Empire and Qing China. Following the Second Battle of Chuenpi on 7 January 1841, British forces secured a decisive victory. The Convention of Chuenpi, signed by Charles Elliot and Qishan, established diplomatic rights and facilitated the exchange of Hong Kong Island for Zhoushan, setting the stage for the British presence on the island.

Occupation and Flag Raising. British forces occupied Hong Kong Island in late January 1841. The Union Jack was formally raised on 26 January 1841 at Possession Point. The island's population at the time was approximately 7,450, consisting mainly of Tanka fishermen and Hakka charcoal burners. The occupation served as a military staging point for British operations during the war.

Convention of Chuenpi. The Convention of Chuenpi was negotiated by Charles Elliot and Qishan. It aimed to establish equal diplomatic rights, exchange Hong Kong Island for Zhoushan, and reopen trade in Guangzhou. Although the Treaty of Nanking later formalized the cession, the initial British control was established through this convention and the subsequent flag-raising ceremony.