Centuries ago, embarking on a voyage along the Maritime Silk Road was fraught with peril. Fierce storms on the high seas threatened both sailors and their precious cargo. To combat these dangers, innovative Chinese shipbuilders engineered a remarkable solution: the Fu ship, commonly known as the junk.
The Fu ships were a marvel of maritime technology. Their most revolutionary feature was the incorporation of watertight bulkheads. This unique design divided the hull into multiple compartments, ensuring that if one section was breached, the others remained sealed and buoyant. This advancement significantly enhanced the ships’ ability to withstand tumultuous weather and rough waters.
These sturdy vessels not only safeguarded goods and lives but also facilitated the flourishing of trade between East and West. The Fu ships became the backbone of maritime commerce, navigating treacherous routes with newfound confidence. Their legacy endures as a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of safer, more efficient exploration.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
