Topic > Reasons why we should celebrate the voyages of Zheng He of China and across the Indian Ocean. These expeditions had multiple objectives, including establishing new trade relationships, exploring uncharted territory, and demonstrating China's great power. Should we therefore celebrate Zheng He's travels? This essay delves deeper into the issue, considering the aspects of peace, diplomatic relations and exceptional leadership they have brought to the fore. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Against the backdrop of the zenith of the Ming Dynasty, on July 11, 1405, Zheng He embarked on his maiden voyage, marking the beginning of his famous series of seven expeditions. While it may be tempting to draw parallels between Zheng He and famous figures like Columbus, it is crucial to recognize the complexity of his voyages. These journeys were not exclusively characterized by peaceful interactions. Incidents such as attacks on the port of Sumatra and outbreaks of violence in Java in 1407, as well as Su-gan-la's capture of Samudera in 1415, suggest that the missions entrusted to Zheng He by Emperor Ming extended beyond the peaceful exploration. to establish Ming rule in the Asian maritime world. Reasons to celebrate Zheng He's travels A compelling reason to celebrate Zheng He's travels is their role in promoting peace and diplomatic exchanges throughout South and Southeast Asia. Historical records provide insights into the benevolent aspects of these voyages. For example, one document mentions "Brava (East Africa), 1417, camels, ostriches", signifying the exchange of gifts. These offerings exemplify gestures of peace and goodwill, reflecting the intent to establish harmonious relationships. Another document, labeled Document E, highlights the Emperor's satisfaction with the loyalty and sincerity of the emissaries, underlining their mission to bestow gifts and showcase China's power by treating distant peoples kindly. These accounts indicate that Zheng He's travels aimed to promote peace and foster positive relations in the regions he visited. Furthermore, the voyages led by Zheng He contributed to the development of trade networks and showed outstanding leadership. Managing over 27,500 crew members across seven expeditions required considerable leadership skills. Document A provides an overview of these voyages, highlighting the significant distances covered and ports of call, such as Calicut in India. These trips were instrumental in seeking trade relations with various regions, demonstrating China's willingness to engage in trade. The Changle inscription mentioned in the essay highlights their efforts to establish trade, including with those in need of linguistic translations. Zheng He's leadership played a critical role in these successful efforts. You may also be interested in The Legacy of Alexander the Great: Conqueror and Cultural Icon It is important to address opposing views criticizing Zheng He's voyages, especially the argument that the fleet was allocated excessive resources, primarily for militaristic purposes. However, a comparative analysis with Columbus reveals a different perspective. Zheng He's fleet boasted 25 ships and 27,500 crew members, ensuring preparedness for future challenges. In contrast, Columbus had only three ships and a crew of just 90 men, making Zheng He's expeditions substantially more robust.