Zheng He was born in Yunnan and believed in Islam since childhood. He was later favored by King Zhu Di of Yan and became a close confidant of King Yan. During the Battle of Jingnan, Zheng He followed Zhu Di in the northern and southern campaigns and made great achievements.
Zheng He's voyages to the West are the most well-known deeds in Zheng He's life. In the third year of Yongle (1405), Zheng He led a large fleet from Nanjing to the Western Ocean (today's Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean) for sailing exploration and diplomatic visits. In the next 28 years, he made seven voyages to the Western Ocean, sailing to Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea, East Africa and other places, reaching as far as today's Kenya and Tanzania.
Zheng He's navigation activities not only expanded the territory and influence of the Ming Dynasty, but also promoted economic and cultural exchanges between China and the world. His sailing expeditions broke the isolation around the world and made China an important part of the world's maritime history. At the same time, his diplomatic activities also enabled the Ming Dynasty to establish extensive friendly relations in Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean.
Zheng He's deeds not only left a profound mark on Chinese history, but also left an important chapter in the history of world navigation. His sailing spirit, diplomatic wisdom and pursuit of peace are still praised and learned by people today.
This book reproduces for you the magnificent maritime life of this Ming Dynasty diplomat.
