The Mongol Empire, which stretched across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East at its peak, is one of the largest empires in world history. Founded by Genghis Khan in the early 13th century, the Mongol Empire altered the course of history in profound ways. It is known for its military conquests, sweeping destruction, and the establishment of one of the most far-reaching empires the world had ever seen. However, beneath the surface of the empire’s fearsome military campaigns, the Mongols also implemented a unique system of governance that transformed the regions they conquered.

This article explores the lives of those who lived under Mongol rule, examining their social, economic, and cultural conditions, as well as the changes brought about by the Mongols' distinctive approach to empire-building.

The Mongol Conquests and Empire Expansion

Genghis Khan, born as Temüjin, unified the Mongol tribes in the early 13th century and began a series of military campaigns that would eventually result in the creation of an empire that spanned from China in the east to Eastern Europe in the west. The Mongols were exceptional horsemen and warriors, renowned for their swift tactics, including their use of cavalry archers and psychological warfare. The Mongol conquests were often brutal, with cities and entire regions being destroyed, and the Mongols became infamous for their siege tactics and the mass killing of civilians.

At its height, the Mongol Empire stretched from the Pacific Ocean to the heart of Europe, encompassing vast territories in Asia, the Middle East, and Russia. However, the Mongol Empire was not a monolithic or homogeneous state; it was divided into several khanates (regions ruled by a Khan), each of which maintained its own governance while adhering to the broader Mongol Empire's principles. shutdown123