让乾隆皇帝龙颜大悦的荷兰使团，为何被历史遗忘？

Core Viewpoint - The 1795 Dutch mission to China represents a significant yet overlooked episode in the history of Sino-Western relations, contrasting sharply with the more famous but unsuccessful British mission led by Lord Macartney in 1793. The Dutch mission was the last to be received according to traditional Chinese court etiquette before the Opium Wars, which marked a shift in diplomatic interactions between China and the West [1][2][3]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Dutch mission was the last European diplomatic delegation to be received under traditional Chinese court protocols until the series of unequal treaties following the Opium Wars [1][2]. - The mission occurred during a time of significant upheaval, with impending uprisings in China and French military advances in Europe, highlighting the complex geopolitical landscape of the era [2][3]. Group 2: Comparison with British Mission - The Dutch mission was successful in gaining favor from Emperor Qianlong, receiving privileges that other European envoys, such as Lord Macartney, did not enjoy, thus providing a contrasting narrative to the British mission [3][4]. - Lord Macartney's mission is often cited as a failure due to cultural misunderstandings, particularly his refusal to perform the kowtow, which led to a breakdown in negotiations and a perception of cultural conflict [4][5]. Group 3: Misinterpretation and Legacy - The Dutch mission has been largely forgotten or mischaracterized in historical narratives, often overshadowed by the more dramatic failures of the British mission, which has led to a skewed understanding of Sino-Western diplomatic history [2][7]. - The negative portrayal of the Dutch mission stems from its failure to fit the narrative of cultural conflict, as articulated by contemporary historians and writers who emphasized the humiliation of the Dutch in contrast to the perceived dignity of the British [8][14]. Group 4: Diplomatic Practices - The Dutch envoy, Isaac Titsingh, understood the importance of adhering to East Asian diplomatic customs, which emphasized ritual and relationship-building over direct negotiation, a lesson learned from previous confrontations with Chinese authorities [9][10]. - The Dutch East India Company adapted its approach to align with local customs, which ultimately facilitated successful trade relations and diplomatic interactions in the region [9][11]. Group 5: Cultural Perspectives - The narrative of the Dutch mission also explores the broader theme of cultural encounters, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and understanding in international relations, as articulated by the mission's members [12][13]. - The contrasting views of the Dutch and British missions reflect differing attitudes towards cultural engagement and diplomacy, with the Dutch approach being more conciliatory and respectful of local customs [12][14].