The impact of the Treaty of Nanking on China's sovereignty was profound, as it marked the beginning of the "Century of Humiliation." Signed in 1842, the treaty was a consequence of the First Opium War and forced China to cede Hong Kong to Britain, open several ports to foreign trade, and grant extraterritorial rights to British citizens. This significantly undermined China's territorial integrity and autonomy, leading to increased foreign influence and intervention in Chinese affairs. The unequal nature of the treaty fostered resentment and laid the groundwork for subsequent uprisings and movements against foreign domination.