RAS Summer School 2026: Currents of the Ming: Commercial and Intellectual Exchanges in a Globalizing World

Long before the modern era of globalization, the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) was actively reshaping the world economy, intellectual landscapes, and the natural environment. This four-part series explores the massive "inflows and outflows" of silver, exotic spices, revolutionary ideas, and botanical imports that transformed the Ming dynasty and laid the foundations of our modern, interconnected world.

Part 2: The Floating Markets of Zheng He

Far from the European voyages of discovery, but at a similar time, Admiral Zheng He's legendary treasure fleets were massive, floating platforms for commercial intelligence and diplomatic exchange. We chart the fleet's journey across the Indian Ocean and learn how these vast expeditions facilitated the transfer of vital navigational technologies, exotic fauna, and rare botanical goods between China, the Middle East, and the Swahili Coast.

Reading materials will be distributed 48 hours in advance to registered attendees.