The Ming Dynasty ruled China for 300 years from 1368-1644, they were politically, economically and culturally strong. They were advanced in science, medicine and Mathematics. Both Genders were well educated of their knowledge of history, geography and literature. The Dutch tried to attack China on two occasions in 1622 and 1624 but the Chinese navy fleets defeated the Dutch and forced them to retreat to the islands of Formosa. A threat came overland from the north, from the Mongols who had ruled China from 1264-1368 before the Ming Dynasty and also from the Manchu to the north-east. To defend China they added watchtowers, cannon and battlements to the Great wall adding to its militant strength.
The Songhai was part of a federation of Kingdoms which had been conquered and were controlled by the king of Mali, the most famous being Mansa Musa who ruled for 25 years. After his death the kingdoms broke away. The Songhai had become wealthy through trade by the middle of the 13th century. Sonni Ali became king in 1464 …show more content…
It was a time of warfare and disorder. At first there was little trade but towards the end of the Middle Ages important trade routes developed. A deadly epidemic swept across Europe during the 14th century, due to bad living conditions, and illness spread quickly. This was known as the bubonic plague, or the Black Death, this disease was carried by the fleas on the rats living on trade ships. Between one third and half of the population died. The Black Death had a very negative effect on the economy of Europe. The Renaissance Began in Italy where the wealth created by trade and a burst of creative activity started in the city states. The renaissance also led to new developments in science and