The Mongols

Flashcards about the Mongols, their empire, and their impact on various regions.

The Mongols

Last great nomadic challenge led by leaders from Chinggis (Genghis) Khan to Timur

Pax Mongolia

An era of Mongol Peace that led to revitalized trade, commerce and urban life along the Silk Road

Mongol society under Chinggis Khan

Resembled other nomadic groups with strong tribal leadership based on bravery and diplomacy.

The Early Career of Chinggis Khan

Born Temujin, he became leader after his father’s assassination and was elected khagan at a kurultai (military council)

Tumen

Military unit of 6000 – 10,000 men, part of the Mongol War Machine

Conquest: Mongol Empire Under Chinggis Khan Expansion

From NW China to North China (Jin) to W Asia (Kara Khitai) and on to the Middle East.

Pax Mongolia

Stimulate trade, cultural exchange, and artistic creativity.

Four Khanates

Russia, Persia, Central Asia, China and parts of South/SE Asia

Impact of Mongols on Russia

Orthodox Church remained powerful and wealthy; enabled princes of Moscow to defeat Golden Horde in 1380

European perspective during Mongol expansion

Christians were hopeful that the Mongols would strike down the Muslims

Mongol impact on Islamic Heartland

Ilkhan Khanate (led by Hulegu) ended Abbasid Dynasty in 1258 and destroyed Baghdad

New social hierarchy—Mongols in China (Yuan Dynasty)

Mongols, Asian nomads and Muslim allies, ethnic Chinese and other minority peoples

Gender roles in Mongol society

Mongol women refused to adopt Chinese ways and had more freedom

Social changes under Mongol rule

Artisans/merchants gained power; scholar-gentry lose it

Benefits peasants received under Mongol rule

Land-reform, granary systems, lower taxes and elementary education

Warning signs—The Fall of the House of Yuan

Failed invasion of Japan, rebellion of Song loyalists, defeats in Vietnam and Java, death of Kublai Khan

1368

Yuan Dynasty gave way to the Ming Dynasty under Ju Yuan Zhang