Diplomacy & Public Service
Landmark
Zheng He
1371 β 1433
Admiral who led Ming treasure fleets to Asia and East Africa
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Why they are here
The Ming dynasty admiral who commanded seven great voyages between 1405 and 1433, reaching Southeast Asia, India, Arabia and the coast of East Africa.
Zheng He was a court eunuch of Hui Muslim origin who became a trusted commander of the Yongle Emperor. His fleets carried diplomats, traders and soldiers and brought envoys and gifts, including a giraffe from the Kenyan coast, back to the Ming court.
The voyages ended after his death and were not repeated. He is remembered in China and across Southeast Asia, where temples are dedicated to him.
The voyages ended after his death and were not repeated. He is remembered in China and across Southeast Asia, where temples are dedicated to him.
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