| Ming Dynasty Essay Questions |
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Writing Exercises—The Ming Dynasty I: Answer each of the following questions using complete sentences. 1 Describe the trade imbalance between Europe and Ming China. During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Europe faced a significant trade imbalance with China. European demand for Chinese silk, porcelain, and tea far exceeded China's interest in European goods, leading to a persistent outflow of silver, particularly Spanish silver from the Americas, to pay for these luxuries. This imbalance strained European economies and contributed to efforts to find alternative trade strategies, such as opium smuggling, to offset the deficit. 2 What did the Ming contribute to science and technology? The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) advanced science and technology through innovations like the Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica) by Li Shizhen, a groundbreaking medical text. They improved gunpowder weapons, shipbuilding (Zheng He's treasure ships), and agricultural techniques (new irrigation methods). Ming scholars also refined cartography, astronomy, and porcelain production (blue-and-white ceramics). However, later conservatism and isolationism slowed further progress, allowing Europe to surpass China in technological development by the 17th century. 3 Why did the Ming refrain from expeditions? The Ming Dynasty halted large-scale expeditions, like Zheng He's voyages (1405-1433), due to high costs, Confucian scholar-officials' opposition to maritime expansion, and a shift toward agrarian-focused isolationism. After Yongle Emperor's death (1424), later rulers prioritized defending against northern nomads (e.g., the Mongols) and saw expeditions as wasteful. The growing threat of piracy and the desire to maintain a controlled, inward-looking economy led to naval decline and the eventual destruction of exploration records. Click here to print. Answers will vary. |
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Writing Exercises—The Ming Dynasty II: Answer each of the following questions using complete sentences. 1 How did the Ming dynasty come to power? The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) was founded by Zhu Yuanzhang (Emperor Hongwu), a peasant rebel who rose against the Mongol-led Yuan Dynasty. Exploiting widespread discontent over corruption, heavy taxes, and famine, Zhu united rebel forces under the Red Turban Movement, defeated Yuan armies, and captured Beijing in 1368. Declaring himself emperor, he established a centralized Han Chinese regime, emphasizing Confucian governance, agrarian reform, and military strength to restore stability after Mongol rule. 2 Describe the architecture of the Forbidden City in Beijing. The Forbidden City, built during the Ming Dynasty (140-1420), exemplifies traditional Chinese palatial architecture. Its symmetrical layout, centered along a north-south axis, reflects Confucian hierarchy and cosmic order. Key structures like the Hall of Supreme Harmony feature sweeping yellow-glazed tile roofs, ornate dougong brackets, and red=painted wooden columns, symbolizing imperial power. The complex includes grand courtyards, intricate carvings, and symbolic motifs (dragons, phoenixes), blending functionality with cosmological and philosophical ideals in a harmonious design. 3 Explain ethnocentrism in the context of Ming China. The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) exhibited strong ethnocentrism, viewing China (Zhongguo, "Middle Kingdom") as the pinnacle of civilization. Confucian ideology reinforced Han superiority over "barbarian" outsiders, including the ousted Mongols and later Manchus. Tributary systems and trade restrictions (e.g., maritime bans) reflected this worldview, as the Ming prioritized cultural purity and agrarian stability over foreign engagement. This ethnocentrism contributed to isolationist policies, hindering adaptation to global changes and weakening China's long-term geopolitical position. Click here to print. Amswers will vary. |
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