Discussion-MODULE 11 - Essay Example

Discussion-Module 11 al Affiliation) Discussion-Module 11 From the lecture and the textbook reading, we can establish three main "world systems" that came into place in the period between 1000 and 1500. The three world systems include the Islamic World system, Ming Dynasty, and Mongolian empire. The Islamic World system was manifest in India, Africa, and Asia where cotton and sugar farming were the dominant activities. The Islamic World system led to the transfer of knowledge to Spain and Portugal.

The lawyer Ibn Battuta symbolized the Islamic World system as he travelled across the globe to meet the demand for Islamic judges in Africa and India. The Mongolian World system lasted between 1206 and 1405. Genghis Khan expanded the Mongolian empire to the Pacific Ocean while his grandson expanded the empire into China. The Ming world system defeated the Mongolian system under the leadership of Zheng He. This system lasted between 1368 and 1644. The Ming world system led to the spread of Confucianism, great artistry, and economic growth.

From lecture, the video "Chinese Treasure Fleets,” and the primary source reading, we derive that Zheng He was a fleet admiral who led the Ming Dynasty. He went for seven voyages to over 30 countries in Africa, South Asia, Persian Gulf, and the Pacific. Zheng He travelled between 1405 and 1433 to expand the Chinese maritime in Asia and establishing commercial networks across the pacific and Indian oceans. He led a fleet of high-tech and large trading vessels for expedition. Zheng He prioritized diplomacy but also adopted military tactics to assert Chinese influence.

Zheng He’s ships were high-tech since they were long, fashionable, and could carry all the other ships by renowned explorers like Columbus. According to lecture and the article by Alfred Crosby, the “Columbian Exchange” related to the exchange of livestock, traditions, plants, knowledge, technology, and people between the Americas and Afro-Eurasia. Maize and potatoes were important plants in the “Columbian Exchange” since they were staple foods, dominated bilateral trade, and enhanced population growth in the two regions.