The tributary system was the form for conducting diplomatic and trade relations with China before the fall of the Ch’ing dynasty in 1911. The system involved exchanges of gifts between foreign rulers and the Chinese emperor. Foreigners benefited because the return gifts from the Chinese were always generous and the very best that an advanced civilization could offer. In addition, the Chinese emperor confirmed the foreign ruler in office, providing a form of legitimacy. In return, the foreigners adopted a posture of subjugation, thereby confirming the superiority of Chinese civilization and the legitimacy of the Chinese emperor. The system was frequently expanded into large-scale commercial trade which was greatly enjoyed by Chinese merchant and foreigner alike.
