1. The Strait of Malacca, through which Zheng He sailed, lies between the southern end of the Malay Peninsula and the island of Sumatra. According to the map, what two large bodies of water does this strait connect? 2. Why did Zheng He sail to Mecca?

3. What port city appears to be Zheng He's major jumping-off point for destinations in Arabia and Africa?

4. Columbus's voyage from Spain to the Carribbean in 1492 covered about 5,000 miles. About how long was Zheng He's trip from Nanjing to Mecca, measured along most direct ship route?

5. Examine the map. Why do you think that it may have been important to Zheng He's travel that he was a Muslim?

6. Do you agree or disagree with the Ming emperor who ended the voyages of exploration? Why?