Answer
During the Era of Unequal Treaties, Li Hongzhang's diplomatic prowess emerged as a powerful force in safeguarding Chinese interests. China confronted a relentless barrage of foreign encroachments and concessions imposed by Western powers during this tumultuous period. Li's astute negotiations, characterized by pragmatism and flexibility, enabled China to mitigate some of the adverse effects and preserve its sovereignty to the best extent possible under challenging circumstances.