Using the Treasure Fleet of Zhu Di as a source, examine the extent of Chinese influence and trade

What will be an ideal response?

The fleet of 317 ships, crewed by 2,000 men, made seven expeditions between 1404 and 1435 to India, Saudi Arabia, and down the African coast (Map 18.4) trading silks, porcelain, lacquer ware, and iron. In Calicut, India the captain obtained spices and Calicut became a regular stop on the trade route. Trade was made for tree resins such as camphor and in Siam, the hardwood mahogany was discovered. Pearls and other precious stones were collected the Persian Gulf.