Grade 9 Unit 5 Topic 2 Section B

(Susanna and Kangkang are talking about Zheng He.)
Susanna: You know, I am becoming more and more interested in China’s history these days. Could you tell me something about the person named Zheng He?
Kangkang: Sure. Zheng He was born in 1371. He was a Ming dynasty explorer whom we Chinese people are proud of Susanna: Why do you think he was great?
Kangkang: Because, as a captain and palace official, he led seven ocean journeys from 1405 to 1433. At that time, the compass played an important role in his sailing. He even succeeded in sailing to the east coast of Africa. His last ocean journey was more than half a century earlier than Columbus’ first journey to America.
Susanna: It’s hard to believe! What a great explorer! He is really the pride of China.
Kangkang: Yes. Unfortunately, he died of illness on his way home from Africa in 1433.
Susanna: Oh, what a shame! Thank you for telling me so much.
Kangkang: My pleasure.