I. The two faces of the Ming dynasty, 1368-1644

A. Impact of the Mongol experience

aggressive foreign policy

effect of assimilation?

attempt at restoration?

isolationism and xenophobia

B. Some basic periodization

Early Ming[1368-1425]: vigorous and outgoing

the voyages of Zheng He and the Star Raft

subjugation of Korea

expeditions against the Mongols

intervention in Annam [N. Vietnam]

missions to Japan

1403-1425 J. tribute missions limited to 1 every 10 yrs.; 2 ships only

Middle Ming [1425-1590]: turning inward

increasing corruption

increasing power of eunuchs and harem

Ming drama

the Neo-Confucianism of Wang Yangming, 1472-1529

evacuation of the South China coast

ban on Portuguese trade

Late Ming [1590-1644]: decline and decay

II. Japan and the China Trade

A. Official trade

getting around the tributary system

bakufu controlled trade: 1405-1419

Daimyo and monastery controlled trade: 1432-1548

B. Unofficial trade

merchants

did they have their own ships?

Chinese ships

Okinawan ships

Portuguese galleons

wako [pirates]

desperadoes or seagoing warlords?

mixed Japanese, Korean and Chinese crews