Under the early Ming Dynasty, the Yongle Emperor sought to solidify China's position as a leading power in the world. To accomplish this goal, he commissioned Admiral Zheng He to lead a series of maritime expeditions. In 1405, Zheng He departed from Nanjing with a fleet that was unprecedented in size and capability, featuring massive treasure ships known as 'baoshan'. During this first voyage, he traveled through the South China Sea, making stops at various ports, including modern-day Vietnam, Indonesia, and India.

Zheng He’s expeditions were not merely military in nature; they were also deeply diplomatic and commercial. The voyages aimed to gather information about distant lands, establish formal diplomatic relations, and promote trade. Zheng He’s fleet carried a diverse cargo that included silk, porcelain, and other valuable goods to trade for spices, gemstones, and other exotic materials. This approach not only created new networks of trade but also fostered cultural exchanges between China and the regions he visited.

The significance of Zheng He’s voyages lay in their demonstration of China’s naval prowess and commitment to engaging with the world. His expeditions extended as far as the shores of East Africa in later voyages, leaving a profound impact on global trade routes. The voyages also enriched the cultural tapestry of the regions encountered, blending influences from various civilizations. Zheng He would continue these exploratory missions for nearly 30 years, culminating in a series of prestigious and lavish voyages that showcased the power and sophistication of Ming China.