Final answer:
Lord Macartney's journey to China in 1793 was to convince the Chinese emperor to open up the country to British merchants and establish a permanent embassy in China. However, the mission was unsuccessful and eventually led to the Opium Wars between Britain and China.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of Lord Macartney's journey to China in 1793 was to convince the Chinese emperor to open up the country to British merchants and establish a permanent embassy in China. The British wanted access to China for trade, especially for their cotton fabrics and silverware. However, the Chinese authorities were reluctant due to their disdainful attitude towards the West and concerns about foreign influence. Macartney's failed mission ultimately led to the Opium Wars between Britain and China.