of the Ming Empire by conducting
diplomatic missions, securing and
establishing trade rights, as well as
exacting tribute.
The size of his fleet intimidated
most into submission – 30,000 men
aboard 250 vessels including 60
treasure ships (some of which were
120 metres long and 52 metres wide).Zheng He’s story is an epic
tale of lowly beginnings leading
to legendary status, becoming a
representative of the power and
wealth of China following its liberation
from the Mongol Dynasty.
Originally named Ma He, a Hui
Muslim from Yunnan, he was taken
captive as a child, castrated, and
placed in the service of Zhu Di,
the Prince of Yan. He was bestowed
the name “Zheng” after helping the
prince gain the throne in 1402.
From 1405–1433, Zheng He led
seven naval voyages across the
South China Sea, the Indian Ocean,
and beyond. Their purpose was to
increase the renown and influenceZheng He notably smashed the pirate
fleet of Chen ZuYi off the coast of
Sumatra, and waged a land war in
Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), bringing the
defeated King of Kotte back in chains
to the Emperor.
After his death in 1433, his
achievements were minimalised and
the voyages ceased, but history could
not easily forget such a man: a leader,
who pioneered massive voyages
the likes of which the world had
never seen; a visionary, who looked
outwards and saw China’s influence
as a global power; and a missionary,
whose efforts are noted by scholars
as being vital in the spread of Islam
across Southeast Asia. agicon
Zheng He
the greatest admiral in china’s history
(1371–1433) Text Hastings FormanZheng He led seven
naval voyages across
the South China Sea,
the Indian Ocean,
and beyondIMAGE © SHUTTERSTOCK