| Date | May 2019 | Marks available | 15 | Reference code | 19M.3op3.HL.TZ0.5 |
| Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of Asia and Oceania) | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | To what extent | Question number | 5 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Section 3: Exploration, trade and interaction in East Asia and South-East Asia (1405–1700)
To what extent was the “looking out” policy of China based on economic motives?
Markscheme
The question requires that the candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that the “looking out” policy of China was not based on economic motives. The reasons for the policy may predate the timeframe but they must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to the non-economic goals of the policy: expansion of military and diplomatic influence, acquisition of scientific and geographic knowledge and the establishment of tributary relationships with more states. The role of key individuals such as the Yongle Emperor and official Chinese attitudes towards foreign trade may be considered as well as the economic situation of China, its existing trade relationships and networks. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the suggestion.
Examiners report
The question required candidates to consider the merits or otherwise of the suggestion that the “looking out” policy of China was not based on economic motives. Candidates may have challenged the assumption in the question by suggesting that economic motives were the main reason for this policy.
