Chinese Explorer: Zheng He Chinese explorer who commanded several treasure fleets – Chinese ships that explored and traded across Asia and Africa. His expeditions greatly expanded China’s trade. Name: Zheng He Birth/Death: 1371 - 1433  Nationality: Chinese  Birthplace: China

Zheng He sailed for the Ming Dynasty Zheng He was a Chinese explorer who lead seven great voyages on behalf of the Chinese emperor. These voyages traveled through the South China Sea, Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, and along the east coast of Africa. His seven total voyages were diplomatic, military, and trading ventures, and lasted from 1405 – 1433. However, most historians agree their main purpose was to promote the glory of Ming dynasty China.

Zheng He’s Ships

Columbus (Spain) vs. Zheng He (Ming China) Christopher Columbus  had small ships- 40 feet wide Only 3 ships Small voyages Had a crew of 86-89 men Killed innocent people  Stole Indigenous People’s land Died in prison in Spain Zheng He Big ships - 440 and 538 feet long by 210 feet wide 317 ships (treasure ships) Big/more voyages (7 major voyages) Up to 30,000 crew Had respect for Indigenous people  Returned leaders to their countries Died at sea off of Calicut, India and had major memorial for him in China