The Ming dynasty ruled China from A.D. 1368 to 1644, a period of Chinese rule between two foreign conquests. It was preceded by the Mongol Empire and followed by the Manchu dynasty. Ming rulers restored traditional institutions, such as the civil service, which the Mongols had suspended. During the Ming period, Chinese authority extended into Mongolia, Korea, Southeast Asia, and the Ryukyu Islands.

The word Ming means bright in Chinese, and the period was important especially in the arts. The imperial palace in Beijingís Forbidden City reached its current splendor largely through the efforts of Ming architects. Artists also produced exquisite porcelain, bronze, and lacquerware. During the final century of the Ming dynasty, increasing numbers of Europeans began visiting China and opening it up to foreign influence.

Excerpt adapted from the "Ming dynasty" article, The World Book Encyclopedia, © 1999