China celebrates its maritime history to honor a legendary 15th-century explorer
Every July 11, China honors the legacy of Admiral Zheng He, a 15th-century explorer who led a massive 'treasure fleet' across the oceans decades before the European Age of Discovery.
In 1405, Admiral Zheng He set sail on the first of seven epic voyages, commanding a fleet of hundreds of ships that dwarfed anything seen in Europe at the time. These 'treasure ships' were reportedly over 400 feet long, carrying thousands of sailors, doctors, and even translators to establish trade and diplomacy across Southeast Asia, India, and East Africa.
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