Examine the foundations of the ming dynasty. what were the greatest accomplishments of the ming? what led to their decline

The Ming Dynasty is the second to the last dynasty in China, and known for its technological achievements and the dynasty that permitted cultural exchange and trade with the Europeans. The Ming succeeded the Mongol-led Yuan Dynasty and became a mighty military power by creating a rigid immobile society composed of many self-sufficient rural communities, achieving the capability to build a very huge standing army and navy. The dynasty also introduced European trade and the influx of silver from trade. However, problems with Europeans shut off this trade and suddenly the empire lacked silver. Natural disasters and a terrible famine meant the government can’t do anything, led to a widespread peasant revolt and invited invasion by the Manchus, who won and established the Qing dynasty.