The Ming Dynasty: Three Centuries of Flourishing Culture and Power

This video tells the story of China's remarkable Ming Dynasty! We follow the Ming's journey from small beginnings to becoming one of the world's greatest empires.

The Ming founder Zhu Yuanzhang overthrew the Mongol rulers and re-established Han Chinese power. The early Ming achieved amazing feats like building the Forbidden City and sending huge navy voyages to Africa.

Ming armies kept China's borders safe while Ming influence spread across East Asia. Trade and agriculture boomed, allowing arts, dramas, porcelain-making and more to flourish.

But later, corruption and disasters weakened the Ming. Peasant revolts overwhelmed the declining Ming military, letting rebels ultimately capture Beijing and end the dynasty.

The Ming made a deep cultural impact and remains one of China's greatest imperial eras. Its almost 300 years of success launched China into an early modern golden age.