What was the primary illegal good involved in the Opium Wars between Britain and China?

The primary illegal good involved in the Opium Wars was opium. During the 19th century, British traders began exporting opium produced in India to China, leading to a widespread addiction crisis among the Chinese population. The Chinese government, recognizing the detrimental effects of opium on society and the economy, imposed strict regulations and ultimately banned its importation.

In response to these actions, Britain, motivated by economic interests and the desire to maintain its lucrative trade, engaged in military conflict with China, resulting in the Opium Wars. These wars had significant repercussions, leading to the Treaty of Nanking and other agreements that favored British trade and influence in China. The opium trade thus served as the catalyst for the conflicts, making it the central illegal commodity in this historical context.