Zheng He’s Legacies in Southeast Asia

Abstract

          The Ming maritime voyages led by Muslim Chinese eunuch Zheng He in the early 15th century had tremendous impacts on Southeast Asia’s politics, economy, society, and culture. The article aims to explore relevant studies to indicate his legacies in the region, which are (1) the rise of Malacca as an entrepôt; (2) the so-called “Age of Commerce” and absolutism; (3) the spread of Islam; and (4) tales and sacred places related to Zheng He.