Ming Dynasty: End the Treasure Voyages (1433)
by Anonymous
China's massive treasure fleet under Zheng He had explored Southeast Asia, India, Arabia, and East Africa. The Ming court chose to end the voyages and turn inward, ceding the seas to future European explorers.
End the Voyages (Haijin)
1433
year
Saved enormous treasury expenditure
cost
Inward focus, Confucian values
strategic vision
Chosen — China withdrew from maritime exploration
outcome
Continue Maritime Expansion
1433
year
Massive ongoing expense
cost
Global trade network, colonial presence
strategic vision
Not chosen — China lost maritime advantage to Europe
outcome
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