Final answer:
Ming China had a profound impact on global trade, marked by the prosperous economy and Zheng He's expeditions. Initially resistant to foreign trade, Ming China later embraced it, leading to economic prosperity and social changes, albeit contributing to the Ming dynasty's eventual downfall and the rise of the Qing dynasty.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impact of Ming China on Global Trade
The impact of Ming China on global trade was significant and multifaceted. During the Ming dynasty, China experienced a prosperous time with a robust economy fueled by the production and trade of commodities such as porcelain, silk, and tea. Particularly noteworthy were the voyages of Zheng He, who led large-scale expeditions that reached as far as Africa, demonstrating China's maritime capabilities and facilitating trade and tribute relationships.
However, under the reign of Hongwu, Ming China had policies to restrict foreign trade to maintain cultural and economic integrity. It was not until a need for revenue arose that the government opened up to trade with Europeans. This brought prosperity to Chinese farmers, artisans, and merchants, transforming the traditional agrarian economy into a competitive commercial one. Yet, to maintain trade relationships, foreign states were required to pay tribute to the emperor, a practice emphasizing China's dominance in the region. The demand for silver as the base of China's monetary system also led to an influx of silver from European traders, which further integrated Ming China into global trade networks.
Interaction with Europe was not without its effects on society. While it brought wealth and new crops like sweet potatoes and peanuts, which helped feed the growing population, it also led to concerns among conservatives about changes in lifestyle and social structure. Ultimately, the inability to address internal problems led to the downfall of the Ming dynasty and the rise of the Qing dynasty, which continued trade with Europe while attempting to reinforce Confucian values.