Unit 2: How Trade and Travel Changed the World

Lesson D: The Chinese Continent

Activity 5: Ming Diaspora

The rule of the Ming Dynasty included using warfare to conquer neighboring peoples, and maintaining relations based on the payment of tribute to the Ming government. Interaction between the Chinese and other Asians also helped spread Chinese culture.

Diffusion of Chinese culture was accepted by some Asians, while others felt it was destroying native beliefs and customs. The diaspora of Chinese people, religion, political ideas, language, and other customs influenced populations throughout East and Southeast Asia.

Relations between the Ming government and surrounding areas were usually based on demands for tribute to be paid in exchange for peace and protection from the Ming. In East Asia, interaction also led to the sharing of cultural traditions, political ideas, and religious customs between China, Korea, and Japan.

In Southeast Asia, Chinese cultural diffusion also influenced parts of present day countries such as Tibet, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Although there was economic and military competition between China and its neighbors, the movement of populations also brought religious ideas, written and spoken languages, and ideas about government. The lasting effect of these changes was a common Asian culture, even after the decline of the Ming Dynasty and the rise of other civilizations and empires throughout the continent.

Directions: Read each description and then drag it to the correct column: government, religion, or language. Use the buttons provided to check the latest move or, when you are done, check the whole question.

In the next activity, you will use what you learned about the Ming Dynasty to complete a historical investigation and discussion.