Yes, the opium smuggling of American merchants should be part of the national narrative for several important reasons. Including this aspect of history provides a more comprehensive, honest, and nuanced understanding of the United States' past, its economic development, and its role in global affairs. Here are some key reasons why it is significant to include this history in the national narrative:

1. Understanding Economic Foundations and the Industrial Revolution

• Economic Impact: Opium smuggling by American merchants, particularly during the 19th century, played a significant role in the economic development of the United States. The immense profits generated from the opium trade contributed to the capital accumulation necessary for the growth of American industries, including the textile mills and the expansion of infrastructure like railroads. This economic activity was a precursor to the American Industrial Revolution, which transformed the U.S. into a global economic power.

• Industrial Capital: By recognizing that some of the initial capital that fueled American industrial growth came from activities like opium smuggling, the narrative acknowledges the complex and sometimes morally ambiguous foundations of American economic success. This perspective challenges simplistic or sanitized versions of American history that only highlight positive achievements without addressing their full contexts.

2. Ethical and Moral Implications

• Moral Complexity: Including the history of opium smuggling highlights the moral complexities and contradictions in American history. While the United States has often portrayed itself as a nation of moral principles and lawfulness, the involvement of American merchants in the illegal opium trade exposes a darker side of American enterprise that prioritized profit over ethics and legality.

• Reflection on Policy and Power: This aspect of history encourages reflection on how economic interests have influenced American foreign policy and global interactions. It shows that U.S. engagement in global trade has not always been guided by moral considerations but sometimes by exploitative practices that have had profound impacts on other countries, particularly China.

3. Global Interconnections and Impact

• Understanding Global History: The opium trade was a significant global event that affected many countries, particularly China. Including it in the national narrative provides a fuller understanding of how American actions have impacted the world, contributing to global conflicts like the Opium Wars and shaping international relations. It helps Americans understand their country's role in global history and the interconnectedness of national actions and global consequences.

• Impacts on China: The forced opium trade led to widespread addiction in China, social disruption, and two Opium Wars, which had long-lasting consequences on Chinese society, economy, and sovereignty. Understanding this impact is crucial for appreciating the historical grievances and the complex relationship between China and the West.

4. Challenging National Myths

• Addressing National Myths: The national narrative often includes myths or idealized versions of history that ignore uncomfortable truths. By incorporating the history of opium smuggling, the narrative challenges the myth of American exceptionalism, where the U.S. is portrayed solely as a force for good or moral leadership. It invites a more critical examination of history that recognizes both achievements and transgressions.

• Critical Historical Analysis: Including such episodes encourages critical thinking and analysis of historical events, fostering a deeper understanding of how nations, including the U.S., have sometimes engaged in practices that contradict their stated values and principles.

5. Learning from the Past

• Historical Lessons: Acknowledging and understanding the opium smuggling history allows for important lessons about the consequences of unethical economic practices and imperialistic policies. It offers insights into how unchecked pursuit of profit can lead to social harm and international conflicts, serving as a cautionary tale for contemporary economic and foreign policy.

• Fostering Accountability: By confronting this aspect of history, there is an opportunity to foster accountability and transparency in how history is taught and understood. It encourages discussions about historical injustices and their legacies, promoting a more informed and reflective citizenry.

Summary

Including the opium smuggling of American merchants in the national narrative is essential for presenting a truthful, comprehensive, and multifaceted history of the United States. It contributes to a more honest appraisal of America's economic foundations, challenges national myths, and highlights the global impact of American actions. Acknowledging this history promotes critical thinking, ethical reflection, and a better understanding of the complexities of American history, providing valuable lessons for current and future generations.