How Genghis Khan Changed the World
6 Major Ways He Influenced History
Genghis Khan’s impact on history was profound and far-reaching, shaping not only the societies of his time but also influencing the course of world events for centuries to come. So we’ve decided to compile a few key aspects of his legacy
Genghis Khan
1. Expansion of the Mongol Empire
Genghis Khan's military conquests resulted in the creation of the largest contiguous land empire in history. The Mongol Empire stretched from Eastern Europe to the Sea of Japan, encompassing diverse regions and peoples. This vast territory facilitated cultural exchange, trade, and the spread of ideas across Eurasia. As Genghis tells Kennardley:
“But if you don’t believe me check the stats. Alexander (the Great), just over 2 million square miles conquered. Me, just under 5 million. In fact you can put Alexander, Attila the Hun, Napoleon Boneaparte and Adolph Hitler together and they’re still not going to add up to my tally.”
2. Promotion of Trade and Communication
The Pax Mongolica, or Mongol Peace, that followed Genghis Khan's conquests facilitated increased trade and communication along the Silk Road. The Mongols established a network of safe trade routes, which encouraged the exchange of goods, technology, and knowledge between East and West. This period of relative stability fostered economic growth and cultural exchange.
3. Cultural Exchange and Synthesis
The Mongol Empire brought together diverse cultures, religions, and peoples under a single political authority. This cultural synthesis led to the exchange of ideas, languages, and technologies across Eurasia.
Prior to his uniting and leading the Mongol Empire, Genghis Khan rallied his followers under the Baljuni covenant with the words "If I finish 'the Great Work' then I shall share with you men the sweet and the bitter. If I break this word then let me be like this river, drunk up by others." Among the oath takers were a mix of Muslims, Christians and Buddhists, Genghis Khan himself a devout follower of Tengrism. There were only two monguls among Khitans, Tanguts, Keireits, Naimans and Central Asians. Genghis Khan's policy of religious tolerance allowed for the coexistence of various faiths within the empire, contributing to religious pluralism and cultural diversity. As Genghis says to Kennardley, “We swore to share all hardships and Glories, no matter who you were. We had Muslims, Christians, Budhists, it didn’t matter. If you swore the oath you were in. And I tell you what it was a good idea. Lots of people joined, enough to beat all my enemies and take over.”
4. Legacy of Legal and Administrative Reforms
Genghis Khan
Genghis Khan implemented administrative reforms aimed at centralizing power and maintaining stability within the empire. He established a legal code known as the Yassa, which governed various aspects of Mongol life, including warfare, trade, and social conduct. His administrative innovations laid the foundation for effective governance and statecraft within the empire.
5 Military Tactics and Strategy
Genghis Khan revolutionized warfare with his innovative military tactics and strategies. He organized his army into highly disciplined units, including skilled cavalry forces
capable of swift and decisive maneuvers. His use of psychological warfare, intelligence gathering, and siege tactics contributed to his military success and established a template for future conquerors.
6 Influence on Successor Empires
The Mongol Empire fragmented after Genghis Khan's death, giving rise to successor states such as the Yuan Dynasty in China, the Ilkhanate in Persia, and the Golden Horde in Russia. These successor states continued to exert influence over their respective regions for centuries, shaping the political, cultural, and economic landscapes of Eurasia.
Genghis Khan died in 1227, but his empire continued to expand under the leadership of his descendants, known as the Great Khans. Despite the eventual fragmentation of the Mongol Empire, Genghis Khan's legacy endured, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the world. His legacy is complex and multifaceted. While he is often remembered for his military conquests and the brutality of his campaigns, he also played a significant role in shaping the course of history. His impact on history extends far beyond his lifetime, leaving an indelible mark on the development of civilizations across Eurasia.
Episode 2 in series one sees Kennardley manning up to interview the mighty Genghis Kahn, leader of the mongols, and Genghis takes no time at all to show he does not suffer fools easily.
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