Kami Export - Hannah Moon - Bentley_Ch._17.Rise_of_Mongols (2)

Background: Goldsmith from Paris who moved to Budapest during the 13th century.
Captured by Mongols: During campaigns in Hungary, taken to Mongolia in 1242.
Life in Karakorum: Although he was a slave, Boucher held prestige, supervising a workshop.
- Produced decorative objects for the Mongol court, including a notable silver fountain that dispensed wines.
- Crafted statues, carriages, and religious garments for Christian services.
European Presence: Other Europeans at the court included artisans and missionaries, highlighting the multicultural environment of Karakorum.

Historical Significance: Nomadic tribes like the Xiongnu posed threats to established empires such as Han China and helped precipitate the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
Turkish Empires: Nomadic Turkish peoples gained prominence in central Asian affairs between the 11th and 15th centuries, establishing states from Persia to India.
Mongol Expansion: During the 13th and 14th centuries, the Mongols became the dominant power, creating the largest empire in history.
- Early 14th century: Tensions and military prowess led to the establishment of Mongol rule over vast territories from China to Europe.

Turkish Clans: Organized into tribes, they spread their influence after the Xiongnu confederation's dissolution.
Nomadic Economy: Adapted to arid lands with herding of sheep, horses, and other livestock.
- Relied on livestock for sustenance: meat, milk, hides, and trade with settled societies.
Social Structure: Two classes: nobles and commoners, with leadership based on merit and military prowess. Nobles had power mainly during conflicts.

Shamanism: Initial beliefs centered around shamans but later many converted to Buddhism, Nestorian Christianity, and Islam, especially among Turkish peoples.
** warfare Tactics**: Mongol cavalry was highly mobile, using superior horsemanship and archery to outmaneuver enemies.
- High discipline allowed for strategic retreats and counterattacks.