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International Trade in Ming Dynasty

In: Historical Events

Submitted By Zaise
Words 281
Pages 2
We discuss a lot about international trade in my business classes, and how modern technology and government intervention stimulates trade. It was surprising to read that worldwide trade existed as early as in the Ming Dynasty. Up until reading this chapter, I had always thought trading amongst countries started closer towards 1800s. In reality China imported luxury goods from Japan, and even turkeys and tobacco from America. Even more interesting was that Ming China restricted overseas trade and regulated imports, although it was relaxed by the 1560s. Through international trade both parties usually benefit economically, culturally, and technologically. The chapter brings up how Europe introduced the telescope and world map to china through trade back in early 1600s. Again it is fascinating to read how cultures were able to share inventions and innovation through trade so early on in history. Even fashion had an influence in China when books on connoisseurship and etiquette guides were imported. Like current day, there was even a market of imitations and fake clothing being sold. Like Holcombe mentions, late Ming China did indeed seem surprisingly modern, and much of this can be attributed to trade.
I also learned that tea, which is a huge part of British culture, originated from China as a medicinal drink when leaves were imported into Britain. It surprises me that something that is so integrated into British culture originated from early trading with China during the Qing Dynasty. Furthermore in Korea, chili peppers were actually introduced by America. Since then chili peppers have become a staple in Korean cuisine. These two examples make me wonder what other defining cultural characters are a result of trading with East Asian

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