Final answer:
The Ming Dynasty developed extensive trade connections, particularly under the lead of Admiral Zheng He, whose expeditions reached as far as Africa. Tribute-based trade and flourishing industries in porcelain, silk, and agricultural goods marked their interactions, primarily with Asian countries. The dynasty's approach contributed to the early phase of globalization, although their coastal regions later became vulnerable due to a lack of investment in maritime power.
Step-by-step explanation:
Extent of Ming Dynasty's Productive Connections
The Ming Dynasty majorly influenced global trade dynamics before European explorers like Da Gama and Columbus embarked on their voyages. Under the Ming dynasty, which started in 1439, China saw the construction of the Forbidden City and the initiation of substantial oceanic voyages led by Zheng He. Zheng He's fleet explored the Indian Ocean, reaching as far as Africa, and created a Chinese tributary system through which many regions were incorporated by mapping, charting, and trading. This era is often recognized as the beginning of globalization, with the world becoming more interconnected through trade, politics, culture, and religion.
Trade with the Ming Dynasty often required a ceremonial tribute, specifically a kowtow, to the emperor, which allowed countries to access Chinese markets. The Chinese economy thrived, producing tea, cotton, indigo, porcelain, and silk, thereby boosting trade through productive connections with various Asian countries and via the extensive Silk Road network. Although trade flourished, China's focus was not on investing in sea power for trade across the oceans. This approach left the coastal cities vulnerable to European incursions later on.
During the reign of the first Ming emperor, Hongwu, efforts were made to prevent foreign influence and control trade by only permitting tribute-bearing trade missions. However, these measures could not completely insulate China from the effects of burgeoning global trade. Interactions with bordering Asian states were often mired in tributary relations, signifying superiority and submission, whereas trade with more distant countries was primarily commercial.