When China Ruled the Seas

In his book Guns, Germs, and Steel, Jared Diamond describes China’s downfall as a seafaring nation as a local political decision that had outsized effects on its own future development and even that of other countries. What is another example in history when a seemingly local political decision in one area had such a large ripple effect? Where and when was it, what happened and why, and what were the consequences?

In the last chapter, Levathes discusses the legacy of Zheng He and the treasure fleet voyages. One large aspect of this legacy is the Chinese diaspora and cultural influence in many countries of the Asia-Pacific region. Choose a city or island mentioned in the text as a regular stopover during the seven voyages described and outline the Chinese influence there from the 15th century to the present. Is there a significant Chinese population living there? If so, what is its origin? What folktales, music, literature, food, dress, handicrafts, or other aspects of culture have a Chinese influence?

The tale of the treasure fleet can be seen as the competing interests of any powerful nation to either focus its energies inward or reach out to the wider world. In recent years, we have seen a version of this play out in Britain and the United States, with the Brexit referendum and the election of Donald Trump and his “America First” agenda, respectively. Choose one of those events and discuss the issues involved that led to it, as well as the opposing viewpoints involved. What might be the consequences of it in the future? In your opinion, was it or was it not a wise move?

The author gives several examples of what might have been contact between China and far-flung areas of the globe long before the time of Zheng He, such as the Olmec and Mayan peoples in Mexico, the Chavin in Peru, Arnhem Land in northern Australia, and the island of Pate off the coast of Kenya. Choose one and discuss the evidence indicating such contact took place, using other sources in addition to this book. What other explanations might be given to account for the cultural similarities between China and the area you chose? Levathes wrote her book 25 years ago, so has more recent scholarship offered new insights? If so, what are they?

On one hand, the voyages of the treasure fleet required much scientific knowledge, such as how to navigate in the open sea. On the other hand, superstition had a strong influence on Chinese thinking. One example of the latter is that an accidental fire in the Forbidden City, part of the newly established capital of Beijing, was seen as a sign from heaven that the emperor was somehow on the wrong track, making him rethink his policies. Discuss the competing roles that science and superstition played and how they influenced the voyages.

What influence has this period had on Chinese history since then? How have subsequent rulers and governments in China viewed it? What about scholars and intellectuals? What lessons did the Chinese draw from this? Consider, in particular, the Qing dynasty, the Republican period of the 20th century, and the recent era since 1949.

The Belt and Road Initiative begun by the Chinese government in 2013 has often been compared to the ancient Silk Road trading system, largely because of its overland routes. However, in its maritime routes, the Belt and Road Initiative also resembles the trade voyages described in this book. Compare the 15th century sea expeditions with its modern counterpart. In what ways are they alike? In what ways are they different? Examine not only countries involved but also purpose, philosophy, goals, and methods.

Levathes argues in her book on behalf of the likelihood of early contact between the Chinese and peoples of the Americas, but mentions none later than the fifth century AD. A decade after Levathes wrote this, author Gavin Menzies published a book in which he claimed that Zheng He’s treasure fleet reached the Americas in the early 15th century (1421: The Year China Discovered America). What evidence did he give for this? Is it plausible, in your view? Why or why not?