Dawn Over the Angry Sea

Wang Kai, a young engineering graduate, transmigrates to 1650, just as the Battle of Zhoushan is about to begin. He ends up on Jeju Island, where he takes in displaced artisans and refugees and puts down roots. Using technology far ahead of its time, he mines coal, makes bricks and cement, and builds up a fortune through salt production and industry. When the Tamna tribes rebel, he sends troops to crush them and builds a monument from their corpses to intimidate the barbarians, securing control of the region.

Wang Kai establishes a complete industrial production line, manufactures muskets and cannons, builds ocean-going warships, and organizes a revolutionary army. He rewards meritorious service with homes and supplies to win people's loyalty. He also opens free schools, enrolling boys and girls alike and overturning the old belief that girls need no education.

He trades with the Shanxi merchant Qiao Guifa to build wealth, keeps heavy industry in state hands, and opens commerce to the private sector, letting the people grow prosperous. Before the Battle of Zhoushan, he uses his navy and firearms to rescue the remnants of the Southern Ming and withstand the Qing court through sheer naval strength. Once his power is sufficient, he launches a northern campaign. His army, armed with firearms, crushes the Eight Banners and establishes a new regime, enacts a constitution, and ensures that the military defends only against foreign enemies, while men and women alike can study and serve as officials.

In the end, his fleet sails across all four seas, spreading Chinese civilization across the five continents and ushering in a golden age through industrial power.