China's economy had different outcomes from 1860 to 1949 and from 1949 to the present due to levels of sovereignty and the global economy. Before 1949, low sovereignty and predatory global practices led to economic stagnation. After 1949, higher sovereignty and a more favorable global environment allowed for significant economic growth, with annual rates reaching 4-10%. The shift in sovereignty and global economic conditions played a crucial role in China's economic development over time.