Zheng He Hanghai Tu (Nautical Chart of Zheng He): A reappraisal

This article attempts to analysis the manuscript of Zheng He Hanghai Tu ( Nautical Chart ). The sailing chart, comprising a set navigational notes written by Admiral He, was published in military pamphlet Ming dynasty, Wubei Zhi . study is divided into three parts. first part examines history development , second explores essence contents this work and third discusses its important role during which attempted understand geography world. used qualitative methods referred map related East African locations, revealing that most entries country old-generation population register have not been analysed. Using also zones South China Sea archipelago Shitang (Paracel Island), Wansheng Shitangyu (Macclesfield Bank) Shixing (Spratly Islands) explain dynasty progressively understood Southeast Asia, Persia, Arab Africa. reveals insights how, through his long voyages, gained new understanding these places particular world general. Keywords: Asia