empire · 1206–1368 AD
Mongol Empire
The Mongol Empire, founded by Genghis Khan, was the largest contiguous land empire in history, stretching from Korea to Eastern Europe at its height.
Key Takeaways
- The Mongol Empire was the largest contiguous land empire in history.
- It was founded by Genghis Khan in 1206.
- At its height it stretched from Korea to Eastern Europe.
- Mongol rule reopened and protected the Silk Road trade routes.
- Type
- Empire
- Founder
- Genghis Khan
- Extent
- Korea to Eastern Europe
Forged by Genghis Khan's military genius in the early 13th century, the Mongol Empire united the steppe and conquered much of Eurasia, reshaping trade, warfare and the map of the medieval world.
The Mongol Empire was the largest contiguous land empire the world has ever known. Forged by Genghis Khan from the warring tribes of the steppe in 1206, it swept across Eurasia with astonishing speed.
At its height the empire stretched from Korea and China to Persia and the edge of Eastern Europe. For all the devastation of its conquests, Mongol rule also unified and protected the Silk Road, allowing goods, ideas and travelers — among them Marco Polo — to cross the medieval world as never before.
Key Achievements
- United the Mongol tribes and conquered much of Eurasia.
- Secured the Silk Road, boosting trade across the continent.
Notable Figures of Mongol Empire
Genghis Khan
93Genghis Khan was the founder and first Great Khan of the Mongol Empire, a military genius who united the nomadic tribes of the steppe and forged the largest contiguous land empire in history.
Genghis Khan
93Genghis Khan was the founder and first Great Khan of the Mongol Empire, a military genius who united the nomadic tribes of the steppe and forged the largest contiguous land empire in history.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large was the Mongol Empire?
At its height it was the largest contiguous land empire in history, stretching from the Korean peninsula across Asia to Eastern Europe and the Middle East.