Introduction
There are many ancient civilizations that have had a great influence on the world, leaving various concepts and items that would shape the world as it is known today. However, Mongolia’s effect in that regard, is one of the most notable, as this country used to be known as one of the largest empires in the world. To this day, its expansion triggers a sense of surprise and interest, motivating scholars to review its history more thoroughly. This text will feature two influential elements that have left a mark on the world and speak about an action that has affected my life.
Discussion
One of the reasons why the empire’s expansion and reputation are so surprising is its people. It was created by a group of pastoral peoples, which would span from the Pacific coast of Asia to Eastern Europe. This location, as mentioned earlier, would then become one of the largest land-situated empires in the world. The expansion has left a large and impressive impact on world history.
The Mongols successfully developed a reputation as rather fearsome warriors. This was attributed to their insight into their enemies’ tactics and the capability of adapting to various factors, such as terrain and the number of soldiers in the enemy’s army. Aside from those characteristics, the Mongols benefitted from the use of espionage, diplomacy, and fear for their victories (Cartwright). The bloodshed they caused on multiple battlefields would result in local generals being labeled as “hounds of war” and their soldiers being perceived as an ominous threat.
The Mongolian military was well-trained and taught to be loyal to Genghis Khan. They were successful at identifying talented individuals in conquered territories and would later use them for the further expansion of their army. The recruits’ training involved diversionary tactics, improving agility, adaptability, and endurance (History on the Net). Adaptability was strengthened with the help of the soldiers being prepared for various outcomes and circumstances, which would later work to their advantage during the army’s future conquests. All of these aforementioned factors are a vivid explanation of their frightening reputation and successful conquests.
The second impact the Mongolian empire had on world history lies within their approach towards religion. In spite of their fearsome reputation, they were rather accepting of religions different from their own (Strayer 535). It is important to mention, however, that they would not change their own religion, as they believed their faith was chosen by the heavens (Shi 111). Mongke, Genghis Khan’s successor, contributed to the promotion of religious tolerance (The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica). Said acceptance was followed by one condition: they should not be used as the center of political opposition and they prayed for the khan (Cartwright). This helped Muslims find more converts among Mongolian troops and assisted Christians with acquiring the freedom that they lacked during the control of the former.
The first change was a rather multifaceted one, as the fearsome reputation was beneficial to the Mongols. However, it is understandable that it was not a positive fact for the people being conquered by them, as it was rightfully based on the structure, skills, and morals of the military. The second change demonstrated flexibility in the way religion was perceived in the empire. This means that it was a rather positive feature since all religions were safe as long as they were not used for political opposition and they prayed for the Khan’s wellbeing. The unusual approach to people’s beliefs is a valid example of a compromise during that time.
My life has featured some rather impactful decisions as well. For example, once I met a guy in my school who had the reputation of a weird person. My classmates believed that he was enthusiastic to the point of being quite annoying. This made me hesitate to talk to the student for a very long time. However, eventually, I decided to finally talk to him out of curiosity.
The boy did not mind at all, and, before I could notice, we were talking for a very long time. It turned out that he liked history as much as I did and was very knowledgeable. In fact, the guy appreciated the facts I knew as well. We would later discuss the past of different countries, such as China, France, Mongolia, and Italy. What surprised me about my new acquaintance is that I eventually learned a valuable lesson from him.
I used to be a very doubtful person, but the guy seemed so brave and courageous about everything, it felt as though his life was full of unusual experiences. He noticed that I was more shy and indecisive, so every time, he would motivate me to do things I liked, but did not have the courage to do. As a result, I became more assertive and would accept any opportunity that could ensure a positive memory, and I am very thankful for it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mongolian empire was notable for two features that left an impact on world history. The first one was their fearsome reputation, which was caused by the structure, skills, and knowledge of their military. This characteristic, along with espionage and diplomacy, helped them successfully conquer multiple territories. The second feature was their acceptance of religions different from theirs. This gave Christians more freedom and granted Muslims the opportunity to spread their beliefs. My own life involved a rather influential decision as well. After being doubtful, I decided to get acquainted with a weird student from my school. This guy later helped me become more assertive, motivating me to experience life in all its glory.
Works Cited
Cartwright, Mark. “Mongol Warfare.”World History Encyclopedia, 2019. Web.
Cartwright, Mark. “Religion in the Mongol Empire.”World History Encyclopedia, 2019. Web.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. “The Period of Relative Unity (1227–60).”Encyclopedia Britannica, 2022. Web.
History on the Net. “What Made the Mongol Army So Successful?”History on the Net, 2018. Web.
Shi, Junhe. “Reexamining the Religious Policy in the Mongol Empire: A Study of William of Rubruck.”Atlantis Press | Atlantis Press Open Access Publisher Scientific Technical Medical Proceedings Journals Books, 2021. Web.
Strayer, Robert W. Ways of the world: A brief global history with sources. Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2011.