Point of Divergence ... We know from historical records that contact between Rome and the Han Chinese Empire occurred during the 1st Century AD via what would eventually become known today as the Silk Road. The first known embassy to China from Rome established itself around 166AD. Underneath this relationship, trade flourished, and many Chinese items, such as silk, were brought to the Empire and became prized for its feel and expensive touch.
What if relations had been established with another super power much earlier than that of the Chinese and Romans? For me, it would be possible that this contact could have been established by the female Pharaoh Hatshepsut, during her reign from 1478 to 1458 BC. She was well known as a builder and explorer who strengthened Egypt's economy and trade. What if she had sent a ship that made contact with China during the Shang Dynasty. Would this have established trade and relations much earlier, and how would this have impacted the world as we know it today?