After emerging from the oppressive era of Mongol rule under the Yuan dynasty, the Ming dynasty took a purposeful turn inward, embarking on a mission to rejuvenate Han cultural traditions while simultaneously enhancing the nation’s infrastructure and economy. During this period, the Ming saw significant expansions and enhancements to the iconic Great Wall, which not only served as a formidable defensive structure but also as a symbol of national pride. The establishment of an intricate tributary system effectively fortified the nation’s defense mechanisms and increased its reliance on vassals. Ming products, renowned for their quality, became highly coveted in international trade, setting the standard for global commodities. However, a crisis emerged when the primary sources of silver, vital for trade and finance, dwindled, leading to unruly rebellions among disgruntled Ming vassals and eventually paving the way for the ascendance of the Manchu-dominated Qing dynasty.
Unique Ability
Great Canon of Yongle: This unique capability boosts Science output in the Capital, but imposes a penalty on Science per turn for every Social Policy slot filled.
Attributes
Civic Trees
Nine Garrisons
- Tier 1: Unlocks the Ming Great Wall Unique Improvement alongside the ‘Divine Engine Division’ Tradition, enhancing defensive capabilities.
- Tradition – Divine Engine Division: Increases Science output for Settlements that host a Garrisoned Combat Unit, blending military strength with intellectual growth.
- Tier 2: Enhances Gold production on the Great Wall Unique Improvement in cities housing a Bank. Additionally, it raises Combat Strength for Ranged Units positioned near the Xunleichong Unique Infantry Unit.
Lijia
- Tier 1: Lowers expenses for building construction in Towns, triggering economic growth. Unlocks the ‘Baojia’ Tradition.
- Tradition – Baojia: Increases Science for every Resource designated to a City, with a greater effect in cities outside the Capital, fostering regional development.
- Tier 2: Expands Resource Limits within your Capital, optimizing production capabilities.
Da Ming Lu
- Tier 1: Mandarin Unique Merchant Units generate Science through the Create a Road Action, emphasizing connectivity and trade. Unlocks ‘Grand Secretariat’ Tradition.
- Tradition – Grand Secretariat: Bolsters Science production in Gold Buildings while simultaneously increasing Gold yield from Science Buildings, promoting a dual approach to progress.
- Tier 2: Raises Settlement Limits, allowing for broader governance. Unlocks the prestigious Forbidden City Wonder, symbolizing cultural supremacy.
Unique Infrastructure
Ming Great Wall: A unique improvement that stands the test of time, functioning as a Fortification. This structure yields additional Gold for adjacent Fortifications, enhancing economic stability. It is designed to be constructed in a linear fashion.
Unique Civilian Unit
Mandarin: This unique Merchant Unit significantly increases Gold output when executing the Create a Road Action, reinforcing the importance of trade.
Unique Military Unit
Xunleichong: A specialized Infantry Unit boasting superior Combat Strength in Featureless Terrain, coupled with a Ranged attack capability, making it versatile in various combat scenarios.
Associated Wonder
Forbidden City: This magnificent structure enhances Culture while providing increased Cultural output for all Fortification Buildings. It must be constructed adjacent to a District, solidifying its importance in urban planning.
Starting Biases
**Interview with Dr. Lin Zhao, Historian Specializing in Ming Dynasty Culture and Economics**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Zhao. The Ming dynasty is often regarded as a pivotal period in Chinese history. Can you tell us more about the cultural rejuvenation efforts that took place during this time?
**Dr. Zhao:** Absolutely! After the Mongol-dominated Yuan dynasty, the Ming sought to restore Han cultural traditions, emphasizing Confucian values and governance. This cultural renaissance played a crucial role in shaping China’s identity and reinforced a sense of unity among the Han people.
**Editor:** That’s fascinating. The Great Wall underwent significant enhancements during the Ming period. How did this reflect the dynasty’s priorities?
**Dr. Zhao:** The Ming dynasty viewed the Great Wall not only as a military fortification but also as a symbol of national pride. They invested heavily in its construction, expanding and reinforcing it to protect against invasions. This commitment to defense reassured the populace and demonstrated their resolve to maintain sovereignty.
**Editor:** You mentioned a tributary system. How did this affect the Ming dynasty’s relationships with neighboring states?
**Dr. Zhao:** The tributary system was a method of ensuring stability and control over surrounding regions. By creating vassal states, Ming China could exert influence and gain resources while minimizing direct conflict. It also fortified their defense mechanisms, as these vassals helped to secure the borders against potential aggressors.
**Editor:** The Ming dynasty is also known for its exceptional products. What impact did that have on international trade?
**Dr. Zhao:** Ming products—especially porcelain and silk—became highly sought after globally. The quality of these goods set a standard in international markets, resulting in increased trade and economic prosperity. This was a vital aspect of their strategy to enhance the economy and consolidate power.
**Editor:** However, the dynasty faced significant challenges towards its end. Can you elaborate on the crisis regarding silver and its consequences?
**Dr. Zhao:** Yes, the depletion of silver sources was catastrophic for the Ming economy, leading to rampant inflation and societal unrest. This financial strain triggered rebellions among vassals who felt neglected or exploited. The subsequent instability ultimately facilitated the rise of the Qing dynasty.
**Editor:** Lastly, could you share some insights on the unique abilities and civic traits associated with this period, particularly in gameplay contexts?
**Dr. Zhao:** Certainly! In many strategy games, the Ming dynasty’s unique capabilities like the “Great Canon of Yongle” enhance Science in the capital but also add intricacies in managing Social Policies. Similarly, the “Nine Garrisons” and “Lijia” civic trees reflect their military and economic strategies. Players must balance power and resources, just as Ming leaders did.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Zhao, for your enlightening insights into the Ming dynasty. It’s clear how the interplay of culture, military, and economy defined this remarkable era.
**Dr. Zhao:** Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss this fascinating period in history.