1. Aim: How did the Ming Dynasty shape Chinese history?
MOTIVATION: WRITE, TURN & DISCUSS
If the Chinese had “discovered” and settled in the United States rather than Europeans
how would your life be different? 1

2. I. MING DYNASTY
A. Period of cultural restoration and expansion.

3. B. Found by Hong-Wu (Vast Military): executed the following reforms in China:
1. Moved capital to Beijing.
2. Abolished all Mongolian influence.
3. Centralized bureaucracy.
4. Reinstituted civil service exam and Confucianism.

5. 5. Extended Chinese authority to Mongolia, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
6. Made Forbidden City epicenter of the Ming’s cultural achievements.

6. II. ACHIEVEMENTS
A. ZHENG HE : Chinese explorer and navigator explored the Southeast Asian kingdoms, Persia, Southern Arabia, East Africa, to expand trade contacts-
***PART OF INDIAN OCEAN TRADE***.

9. B. Exported porcelain, silk, vases, tea.

10. III. MING DECLINE:
A. After 1400, China aimed to LIMIT it’s overseas commerce, and the Ming War Fleet declined.
B. There existed official corruption, isolation of weak rulers, public works projects fell into disrepair, floods, droughts, and famine afflicted the land.