When China Ruled the Seas: The Treasure Fleet of the Dragon Throne, 1405-1433 Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

When China Ruled the Seas: The Treasure Fleet of the Dragon Throne, 1405-1433 Topics for Discussion

What was Confucius' view on China establishing trade relations with foreign countries? How did Confucius' stance on trade and relationships with foreigners impact China's economy and prestige?

How did Zhu Di's policy on trade differ from that of his father Zhu Yuanzhang? Whose beliefs influenced Zhu Yuanzhang? Why did Zhu Di depart from his father's policies?

How did foreign emissaries honor Zhu Di for allowing trade relationships to develop with their countries? How were the foreign envoys treated at the Emperor's court? What gifts did Zhu Di receive from them?

What bad luck followed Zhu Di after the construction of the Forbidden City? What happened to the Forbidden City built by Zhu Di? How did the destruction of the Forbidden City contribute to the loss of China's prestige?

What valuables did China use to trade for items they wanted from other lands? In addition to trade relationships, what other items...
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