In this episode of pplpod, we chart the incredible rise of Zheng He, the 15th-century mariner often regarded as the greatest admiral in Chinese history. Born into a Muslim family as Ma He, he was captured as a child by Ming armies, castrated, and enslaved, eventually becoming a trusted advisor and general to the Yongle Emperor,.

Join us as we explore:

• The Seven Voyages: How Zheng He commanded a massive armada of up to 317 ships and 28,000 crewmen, establishing trade and tribute networks from Southeast Asia to the Swahili coast of Africa,.

• The Treasure Ships: The historical debate surrounding the Bao Chuan. Were these wooden vessels truly 127 meters long—twice the size of any recorded wooden ship—or are these dimensions the stuff of legend?,,.

• Diploma ...