The traditional notion of the time in China is that they are weak and unable to fend off a foreign invasion. Their men are spineless, civilized, and self-restrained. These men were unfit to become soldiers to defend their nation and attack its foes. However, the Ming and Qing Dynasties proved this to be a false statement. Both the Ming and Qing Dynasties expanded the country’s borders through conquest. Troops were sent to countries throughout Asia to assimilate them into the Empire. Their foreign policy was simple: invade and conquer. The term “managed frontiers” came from a tribute system. In this system, the ambassadors for the conquered territories would appease the Emperor by providing gifts and receiving gifts in return. This system allowed
