Final answer:
Zheng He, as the admiral of the Ming Dynasty, led seven naval expeditions between 1405 and 1433. These expeditions were aimed at establishing trade relationships and extracting tribute from various countries in Southeast Asia, India, Arabia, and East Africa. His voyages played a crucial role in expanding China's influence and trade networks in the Indian Ocean region.
Step-by-step explanation:
As the admiral of the Ming Dynasty, Zheng He led seven naval expeditions between 1405 and 1433. These expeditions were aimed at establishing trade relationships and extracting tribute from various countries in Southeast Asia, India, Arabia, and East Africa. Zheng He presented gifts of porcelain, silk, and gold to foreign rulers, showcasing the splendor of the Ming dynasty, and in return, he received tribute in the form of ivory and exotic animals like zebras and ostriches. His voyages played a crucial role in expanding China's influence and trade networks in the Indian Ocean region.