Final answer:
Foreign diplomats "kowtowed" to the Chinese emperor as a ritual to show respect and submission, establishing diplomatic relations and gaining trading privileges. The kowtow had cultural and hierarchical significance within the Chinese tribute system, where China regarded itself as superior and expected foreigners to submit to its authority.
Step-by-step explanation:
In ancient China, when foreign diplomats "kowtowed" to the Chinese emperor or his representatives, it meant that they were performing a traditional ritual to show respect and submission. The kowtow involved three prostrations and knockings of the head on the ground. It was a symbol of acknowledging the emperor's authority and recognizing China as the superior power.
The purpose of this ritual was to establish diplomatic relations and gain trading privileges with China. Foreign diplomats played along with these imperial rituals because they wanted to trade with the Chinese. By complying with the kowtow, they would be allowed to engage in trade and their compatriots who remained at the border would set up temporary markets to conduct business. Furthermore, visiting envoys who were granted an audience with the emperor gained political recognition and authority in their own countries.
It should be noted that the kowtow had cultural and hierarchical significance within the Chinese tribute system. The Chinese authorities considered themselves superior to other nations and believed that foreigners should submit to their authority. While the foreigners had to show respect and obedience, the emperor also had obligations to care for and show benevolence towards those who paid tribute.