Key Terms – Expansion of Chinese Trade Tai Tsu Ming Dynasty Zheng He

The Fall of the Mongols Chu Yuan-Chang would lead a revolt against the Mongols and deposed them in Upon becoming emperor, he would take on the name Tai Tsu. Tai Tsu would be the founder of the Ming Dynasty → ruling family that dominated China from

Ming Acheivements During the rule of Tai Tsu (roughly 30 years), he created many reforms that would ease the burdens of the lower classes while making them productive members of society. Reforms were: Encouraged agriculture by giving peasants seeds, tools and animals Forgave taxes if the peasants farmed land ruined by war. Exempted peasants from public works if they worked ruined land as well.

Ming Achievements (cont.) Scientists would develop rice that could be harvested in 60 days → allowed for double cropping within one season. They developed irrigation pumps worked by pedals to help bring water to rice paddies. Fish were brought into rice paddies to produce two foods instead of one. Cotton was grown and indigo as well. Millions of trees were planted → used as a source of lumber which would help increase the strength of their navy.

Voyages of Zheng He The Ming were interested in expanding their overseas trade. Zheng He → Muslim voyager sent on expeditions between 1405 and The voyages would be halted as a means of preserving Chinese culture and keeping foreigners out. His voyages would: Open new markets in Africa, Asia and Europe Brought new ideas Helped increase settlement of other areas.

Voyages of Zheng He

Results The Chinese during the 16 th Century would now have connections with Japan, Phillippines, Portugal, and the Dutch. Eventually a city would be set up for these foreigners in 1555 known as Macau. This would occur under the Qing Dynasty which would depose the Ming completely in the early 17 th Century.