Final Answer:
China was divided into European spheres of influence in the 19th century.
Explanation:
During the 19th century, China experienced significant pressure from European powers seeking to expand their influence and access to Chinese markets.
This period, known as the "Century of Humiliation," saw Western powers, including Britain, France, Germany, Russia, and others, carving out spheres of influence within China. These spheres of influence were regions where foreign powers held significant economic, political, and sometimes military control.
The Treaty of Nanking in 1842, the Treaty of Tianjin in 1858, and the subsequent series of "Unequal Treaties" imposed on China allowed foreign powers to establish extraterritorial rights and concessions within Chinese territory.
This division of China into spheres of influence ultimately contributed to the weakening of the Qing Dynasty and paved the way for internal strife, rebellions, and eventual revolution in the early 20th century.