During the early 19th century, conflict between Chinese pirates and naval forces emerged due to the formation of the pirate federation. The Tay Son Dynasty was founded after the Tay Son Rebellion in 1788, with many pirates given high military positions. After its collapse in 1802, the pirate leaders decided to consolidate power and create a consolidated group. In 1805, the Jiaqing Emperor wished to destroy the recently established pirate federation because they were damaging to China’s economy. Despite a nominal victory by the Jiaqing Emperor's naval campaign in Canton, the pirate federation's dominance persisted. The pirates controlled key territories and the Pearl River delta, continuing their illegal activities. Even after multiple attacks by the imperial navy, they were unable to defeat the pirate federation, with their only major achievement being the death of Liang Bao, who was the leader of the White Flag Fleet. The loss of Liang Bao and his fleet weakened the pirates, prompting concern for government negotiations.

In the mid-19th century, China’s decline as a global superpower led to the rise of piracy. The government faced financial struggles and an inability to protect its citizens due to major overpopulation and inflated poverty rates. Zheng Yi Sao's pirate confederation, with roughly 1800 ships and over 70000 men, controlled significant trade routes and weakened the Chinese government further. The European opium trade added to the chaos, empowering pirates and eroding China's port towns. In response, the Chinese government initiated negotiations with the pirates, offering pardons, safety, and positions of power in exchange for surrender.

Gabriel Harding is looking forward to serving as chair for the Golden Age of Piracy committee. This is his second year participating in Maggie Walker Model UN and in GSMUN, having served as a crisis staffer for GSMUN XXV. Outside of GSMUN, he is a violinist, and he also enjoys coding. He is excited to see what discussions come out of this committee, and can’t wait for GSMUN XXVI!

James Bae is excited to chair the Golden Age of Piracy Committee. He has participated in Maggie Walker Model UN since his freshman year and was also a crisis staffer for GSMUN XXV. He is also a member of his school's tennis and robotics teams. He is excited to see where debate goes in committee!