Ep 17. Ming Dynasty Trade and Spanish Silver

Understanding Imperial China: Dynasties, Life, and Culture is a historically enlightening series that aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of China's imperial past. In season 1 episode 17, titled Ming Dynasty Trade and Spanish Silver, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the trading relationships that existed between the Ming Dynasty in China and Europe during the 16th century.

The episode starts by providing some background information on the Ming Dynasty, which ruled China from 1368 to 1644. It was during this time that China experienced a golden era of cultural, artistic, and economic growth. The Ming Dynasty was known for its sophisticated trading system, which allowed it to establish connections with various regions of the world.

The show then delves into the trade relationship that existed between China and Europe during the Ming Dynasty. In particular, it focuses on the role that Spanish silver played in Chinese trade during this period. The Ming Dynasty was known for its vast reserves of silver, which were used as a currency to facilitate trade with other nations. However, as the episode shows, it was Spanish silver that had the most significant impact on Ming Dynasty trade.

The episode explains how the Spanish acquired silver from their mines in the Americas and transported it back to Europe through the Atlantic trade route. From there, it was sold to merchants who would then bring it to China in exchange for valuable Chinese goods such as tea and silk. This trade relationship was mutually beneficial, as it allowed China to acquire silver that it needed to finance its economy and maintain its trade relationships with other nations.

The show goes on to explain how the Chinese valued Spanish silver above all other types of silver, even though it was of a lower quality. This was because the Spanish were the only ones with significant quantities of silver that the Chinese could acquire. As a result, Spanish silver became an essential commodity in Chinese trade, and maintaining this relationship was crucial to both nations.

The episode also touches on some of the cultural exchanges that occurred during this time, particularly in the realm of religion. It explains how the Jesuit missionaries who came to China during the Ming Dynasty played a significant role in introducing new scientific ideas, as well as Christianity, to Chinese intellectuals.

Overall, season 1 episode 17 of Understanding Imperial China: Dynasties, Life, and Culture, is an essential watch for anyone interested in the history of trade between China and Europe during the Ming Dynasty. It provides a fascinating insight into the trade relationships that existed during this time, as well as the cultural exchanges that occurred. The episode is educational, informative, and well-presented, making it an excellent addition to any historical documentary collection.