Final answer:
Zheng He's maritime activity during the Ming Dynasty was a turning point in world history, expanding Chinese influence, facilitating cultural exchange and trade, and challenging European narratives of exploration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The maritime activity of Zheng He during the Ming Dynasty can be considered a turning point in world history for several reasons. Firstly, Zheng He's voyages expanded China's influence and established Chinese dominance in the Indian Ocean region, challenging the traditional European narratives of exploration and maritime power. Secondly, these voyages facilitated cultural exchange and trade between China and other nations, contributing to the early stages of globalization. Lastly, Zheng He's expeditions demonstrated China's advanced naval technology, challenging the notion that Western nations were the first to establish maritime power.