The Voyages of Zheng He

Zheng He, a Chinese explorer, led seven major naval expeditions in the early 1400s under the Ming Dynasty. His voyages, which were far more extensive than those of Columbus, aimed to showcase China's power, collect tribute, and explore new lands. Despite facing challenges, including pirate uprisings and conflicts with foreign rulers, Zheng He's expeditions significantly extended China's influence across Asia and Africa. However, after the death of the Yongle Emperor, the voyages ceased, and China shifted focus to internal matters. Zheng He's legacy remains as a symbol of China's historical maritime prowess.

How did Zheng He's fleet compare to that of Christopher Columbus?

• Zheng He had fewer ships but more crew members.

• Zheng He had more ships and a larger crew.

• Zheng He had the same number of ships but a larger crew.

• Zheng He had more ships but fewer crew members.

What was the primary goal of the tribute system reinstated by Zhu Di?

• To establish trade routes with Europe.

• To collect taxes from neighboring countries.

• To assert China's dominance and receive gifts.

• To expand China's territory through conquest.

What was one of the main purposes of Zheng He's naval expeditions?

• To showcase China's power and collect tribute.

• To colonize new lands.

• To find a new trade route to Europe.

• To explore unknown territories.

During Zheng He's voyages, which region did he reach that was further than any Chinese had gone before?

• The Mediterranean Sea

• The Persian Gulf

• The Atlantic Ocean

• The Arctic Circle

What was a significant outcome of Zheng He's fourth expedition?

• Establishing a permanent Chinese colony in Africa.

• Capturing a foreign king and bringing him to China.

• Discovering a new continent.

• Finding a new trade route to Europe.

What happened to Zheng He during his final voyage?

• He died in Calicut, India.

• He was captured by pirates.

• He discovered a new trade route.

• He returned to China and retired.

What was the impact of Zheng He's voyages on China's political influence?

• They led to the colonization of new territories.

• They greatly extended China's political influence.

• They had no significant impact on China's influence.

• They diminished China's influence in the region.