(Para. 4) Zheng He's early life experiences: He was curious, learned, and knowledgeable in ship construction.
(Para. 5) In 1403, the emperor commanded the construction of the Treasure Fleet, which featured an engineering innovation.
(Para. 6) In 1405, Zheng He started his first voyage with a royal order to establish ties with rulers all around the Indian Ocean.
(Para. 7) During his career as a naval commander, Zheng He made great achievements in his expeditions.
(Para. 8) In 1431, Zheng He set out for the seventh trip around the Indian Ocean and died of disease toward the end of his voyage in 1433.
(Para. 9) Zheng He had helped spread the culture and influence of China over a vast realm. But the war in the western region contributed to the end of the epic time of the Ming Dynasty sea voyages.