Great Navigation Era: The Network of Private Maritime Trade

This book delves into the vibrant network of private maritime trade that flourished in China during the Age of Exploration, focusing on the pivotal coastal regions of Fujian, Zhejiang, Guangdong, and Taiwan. Utilizing a wealth of firsthand historical sources, it reconstructs the sophisticated commercial systems and community dynamics forged by Chinese merchants and sailors. The narrative vividly portrays how these private ventures, often operating alongside or beyond official channels, created enduring economic and cultural links across the seas, particularly highlighting the shared maritime history between mainland China and Taiwan. More than a historical study, this work actively engages with contemporary themes by connecting past practices to the modern "Belt and Road" initiative. It articulates a legacy of maritime spirit characterized by friendliness, inclusiveness, mutual benefit, and resilience, offering profound insights into China's historical role in global maritime exchange.