Activity 2: Construct arguments about Ming society 1 Use Source B and your own ideas to explain how it is possible that pleces of Ming porcelain wcre found in archacological sites at Great Zimbobwe in southern Africa. 2 Sources A and C are primary sources because they were made at the time of the Ming dynasty. How do they help us to trust that what is said in the text is accurate? 3 Find evidence in the text and the sources to support the view that Chinese society was more advanced than European society at this time. 4 What were the reasons for the decline of the Ming empire? 5 Look at the photograph of the Great Wall of China above and the map showing the position of the Great Wall on page 11. What evidence is there

To address the questions regarding Ming society and its connections to other regions, we will analyze the provided sources and historical context step by step. ### 1. Explanation of Ming Porcelain in Great Zimbabwe Ming porcelain found in archaeological sites at Great Zimbabwe can be explained through trade networks. During the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), China was engaged in extensive trade with various regions, including Africa. The following points support this: - **Trade Routes**: The maritime trade routes established by the Ming dynasty allowed for the exchange of goods between China and distant lands, including the East African coast. - **Cultural Exchange**: Great Zimbabwe was a center for trade, where goods from different parts of the world were exchanged. It is likely that Ming porcelain was traded for local resources such as gold and ivory. - **Archaeological Evidence**: The presence of Chinese artifacts in Africa indicates that there was a significant level of interaction and trade between these regions. ### 2. Trustworthiness of Primary Sources A and C Primary sources A and C, being contemporaneous to the Ming dynasty, provide valuable insights into the society and culture of the time. Their trustworthiness can be established through: - **First-Hand Accounts**: These sources offer direct evidence of the beliefs, practices, and societal norms of the Ming period, allowing historians to understand the context better. - **Consistency with Other Historical Records**: If the information in these sources aligns with other historical documents or archaeological findings, it enhances their credibility. - **Cultural Context**: The sources reflect the values and priorities of the Ming society, which can be cross-referenced with other historical data to verify accuracy. ### 3. Evidence of Chinese Society's Advancement To support the view that Chinese society was more advanced than European society during the Ming dynasty, we can look for evidence in the text and sources: - **Technological Innovations**: The Ming dynasty was known for advancements in technology, such as the development of porcelain and silk production techniques that were superior to those in Europe at the time. - **Cultural Achievements**: The arts, literature, and philosophy flourished during the Ming period, with significant contributions that influenced not only China but also other cultures. - **Trade and Economy**: The extensive trade networks established by the Ming dynasty facilitated economic growth and cultural exchange, surpassing the more localized economies of Europe. ### 4. Reasons for the Decline of the Ming Empire The decline of the Ming empire can be attributed to several factors: - **Internal Strife**: Corruption and mismanagement within the government weakened the central authority, leading to civil unrest. - **Economic Challenges**: Heavy taxation and inflation strained the economy, causing dissatisfaction among the populace. - **External Threats**: Invasions by the Manchus and other external forces contributed to the empire's downfall, culminating in the establishment of the Qing dynasty. ### 5. Evidence from the Great Wall of China The Great Wall of China serves as a significant piece of evidence regarding Ming society: - **Military Defense**: The construction of the Great Wall during the Ming dynasty reflects the need for protection against invasions, indicating a society that prioritized security and territorial integrity. - **Engineering Feats**: The scale and complexity of the Great Wall demonstrate advanced engineering skills and organizational capabilities, showcasing the technological prowess of the Ming dynasty. - **Cultural Symbol**: The Great Wall symbolizes the strength and unity of the Ming empire, serving as a physical representation of their societal values and priorities. In summary, the Ming dynasty was characterized by significant trade, cultural achievements, and advanced technology, while facing challenges that ultimately led to its decline. The evidence from archaeological finds, primary sources, and monumental structures like the Great Wall supports these conclusions.