Exploring Ming Dynasty's Trade Relationships

Which of the following is NOT TRUE regarding the Ming Dynasty's trade relationships?

Final answer:

The claim that the Ming Dynasty didn't participate in sea exploration because they controlled the Silk Road is not true. Despite initial reticence, the Ming Dynasty did engage in foreign trade and sea exploration.

Explanation:

The statement 'Since China controlled the Silk Road, the Ming did not participate in sea exploration' is NOT TRUE regarding the Ming Dynasty's trade relationships. The information shows that under the reign of the first Ming emperor, Hongwu, China did indeed initially forbid foreign trade to protect itself from foreign influences.

However, this policy was later reversed, and in the sixteenth century, amid the need for funds, Ming China permitted trade with Europeans. Additionally, Zheng He, a Ming dynasty explorer, is known to have undertaken significant sea exploration, signified by the establishment of structures, like mosques, with Chinese influence in places like Malaysia.

Therefore, it is incorrect to say that the Ming did not engage in sea exploration because they controlled the Silk Road.