Question

During the reign of Hongwu, how did the Ming dynasty try to prevent foreign trade?

a) The Ming dynasty encouraged and facilitated foreign trade.
b) The Ming dynasty restricted foreign trade to protect its economy.
c) The Ming dynasty was indifferent to foreign trade.
d) The Ming dynasty focused on military expansion rather than foreign trade.

Answer 1

The Ming dynasty under Hongwu tried to prevent foreign trade by forbidding private trade, closing trade offices, destroying ships, and obstructing harbors to deter maritime activities.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the reign of Hongwu, the first emperor of the Ming dynasty, there was a concerned effort to reduce foreign influence and control over the Chinese economy. This was carried out by restrictive measures aimed to prevent foreign trade. Hongwu enacted policies that not only forbade private foreign trade but also led to the closing of Maritime Trade Intendancies' offices, the destruction or decay of ships, and the physical obstruction of harbors to deter maritime activities. The reign of Hongwu was hence characterized by prohibitive stances towards external commerce and a drive to fortify internal stability and Confucian values within China.