Summary of Tartars and Prester John in Marco Polo's Travels

Overview of the Tartars and Prester John

The Tartars inhabited northern plains with abundant resources but lacked a king. They paid tribute to Prester John, known as Unc Kan, which led to their rebellion driven by fear of being dispersed. Frustrated, the Tartars moved north and ceased paying tribute.

Emergence of Chinghis Kaan

In 1187, the Tartars elected Chinghis Kaan as their king due to his worth and wisdom. Under his leadership, they conquered multiple provinces without harming the conquered, thus expanding their numbers and power.

Chinghis Kaan and Prester John

Chinghis Kaan sought marriage with Prester John's daughter, provoking anger from Prester John who responded with a rejection. Enraged, Chinghis Kaan prepared for war, leading to a significant confrontation at Tenduc.

The Battle

Prester John underestimated the Tartars, but both sides mustered substantial armies. Chinghis Kaan consulted astrologers about the battle's outcome. After two days of fierce combat, Chinghis Kaan emerged victorious, resulting in Prester John's defeat and death.

Succession of the Kaan

Chinghis Kaan ruled for six years afterward, expanding his conquests until his death from an injury. Posthumously, several successors followed, with Cublai Kaan known for holding great power.

Tartars' Customs and Beliefs

The Tartars practiced unique customs, including their religious beliefs focusing on a supreme God and their own protective deity, Natigai. They led nomadic lifestyles, transitioning between warmer and cooler climates, and maintained specific traditions regarding marriage and family structure. Their warriors were highly skilled, organized into specific ranks for military campaigns, and their methods of battle included clever tactical retreats.

Justice System

Their justice system was harsh, relying on physical punishment and requiring restitution for thefts. Burial practices involved elaborate rituals including the mass execution of servants and horses to accompany the deceased in the afterlife. The Tartars also had beliefs in the spiritual continuation of relationships through rituals post-death.