The Mongols

Flashcards about The Mongols

Mongol Empire

A nomadic empire that constantly moved, bridged Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, and attacked established civilizations.

Significance of the Mongol Empire

Spread diverse cultures, allowed Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism to spread, developed the Spice Road, and created a trade network between Asia and the Mediterranean.

Structure of Mongol/Turkish Society

Composed of two class types: Nobles and Commoners; Nobles picked leaders and were important in times of war; Commoners could become Nobles based on good conduct.

Genghis (Chinggis) Khan

Responsible for the setup of modern Europe through his ruthless conquests; unified all Mongol Tribes as one in 1206 and was known as a 'universal leader'.

Mongol Military

Skilled horse riders used in every aspect of life; known for their ability to kill someone at 656 feet and for incorporating those who surrendered peacefully into their society.

Mongol Conquest

Involved killing entire populations if captured, using survivors as human shields, and attacking China, Persia, and other nomadic Turks.

Mongol Empire Post-Genghis Khan

Divided into 4 regions: Chagatai (central Asia), Persia (ruled by ilkhans), Golden Horde (ruled by khans in Russia), and controlled by Khubilai Khan, Genghis Khan’s grandson.

Mongols and Eurasian Integration

Secured trade routes for European traders, connected China and Europe, spread gunpowder and paper making, and promoted Christianity, Buddhism, and Islam.

Rule of Khubilai Khan

Promoted Buddhism, supported the poor, built and maintained roads, took over most of China by 1279, and failed invasions of Java, Vietnam, Cambodia, Burma, and Japan.

Decline of the Mongol Empire

Resulted from spending too much money in Persia, failure of paper currency, power vacuums, and subsequent takeover by Tamerlane and the Ottomans.