Why did Zheng He sail to Mecca?
1 Answer
Zheng He sailed to Mecca under orders from the emperor, Zhu Di.
Explanation:
During the Ming dynasty, many Chinese emperors initiated campaigns to defeat any foreign or domestic threat to demonstrate their power. Emperor Zhu Di wanted to restore the Chinese empire to its former glory, and so he implemented the old tributary arrangement.
Under this agreement, several countries surrounding China agreed to recognize it as their superior nation and to regularly give gifts of tribute. In exchange, China would provide certain benefits, like military protection. In efforts to expand the tribute agreement, Zhu Di sent General Zheng He to the south and west. His goal was to defeat foreign policies and convince opposing countries of the benefits of the tribute arrangement.
