Geography often influences the course of history

Geography often influences the course of history. The Batanes and Babuyan Islands, scattered in the northeastern South China Sea, cover an area of over 1,000 square kilometers and stretch 300 kilometers from north to south. They are comparable in size to the Ryukyu Islands, yet they remain relatively unknown. These islands are scattered like pearls on the blue waves, boasting rich fishery resources and unique natural scenery. Imagine if these islands had become an important maritime trade hub in ancient times. What would that have looked like? History has no "what ifs," but we can consider how geographical advantages can be transformed into actual economic and strategic value. During the Ming Dynasty, Zheng He made seven voyages to the Western Seas, with his fleet traveling to many countries in Asia and Africa. However, the Batanes and Babuyan Islands did not seem to be on their radar. Was it due to the route planning? Or were there other historical factors? These questions, like the sea fog around the islands, shroud them in mystery. As Napoleon said, "Geography is destiny."