Zheng He brought the giraffe from East Africa, where it was identified as a "qilin," a mythical Chinese unicorn symbolizing prosperity and a wise emperor's reign.

The Yongle Emperor ordered these voyages to project Chinese naval power across the Indian Ocean, encouraging foreign states to submit tribute and acknowledge Ming superiority.

Born into a Hui Muslim family in Yunnan, Zheng He's faith gave him a unique diplomatic advantage when negotiating with Islamic leaders across the Indian Ocean trade network.

Reportedly measuring over 400 feet long with nine masts, these massive vessels were several times larger than the wooden ships Christopher Columbus sailed decades later.