Episode
The Ethiopian Giraffe That Went to China: Zheng He's Forgotten Voyage
- Published
- Jun 19, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 492
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Summary
In the early 15th century, a live giraffe arrived in Beijing aboard a Chinese treasure ship. The Chinese called it a qilin, a mythical beast of good omen. But how did an African giraffe end up in the Forbidden City? This episode traces the remarkable journey from the court of Ethiopian Emperor Yeshaq I to Ming China's Yongle Emperor, through the voyages of Admiral Zheng He. Along the way, we explore the diplomatic missions, the complex relationship between the Solomonic dynasty and the Chinese empire, and the intricate trade networks of the Indian Ocean. Discover how Ethiopia, the Christian kingdom of Africa, sent ambassadors thousands of miles east, and how a giraffe became a symbol of cosmic harmony. A story of diplomacy, wonder, and the forgotten ties between two great civilizations. #Ethiopia #ZhengHe #MingChina #YeshaqI #Giraffe #Qilin #IndianOceanTrade #SolomonicDynasty #YongleEmperor #MedievalDiplomacy #EastAfrica #ChinaAfrica #MingDynasty #AdalSultanate #Axum #Ge'ez #History #FexingoHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo