Mongol Empire & Yuan Dynasty

Essential Question 1 How did the Mongols build a vast empire that stretched from Europe to China? They had strong leaders, a disciplined army, and conquered other empires

Essential Question 2 What features of the Chinese form of government did the Mongols adopt? They kept the Chinese style of government (same capital, same terms, etc.)

Essential Question 3 How did the Mongols encourage trade? They made trade routes safer, encouraged people to trade across the sea, and increased contact with foreigners (ex: Marco Polo)

Mongol Rule Yuan Dynasty founded by Kublai Khan Mongol Social Pyramid Yuan Dynasty founded by Kublai Khan Power held by Mongols or trusted foreigners, Chinese had little power Mostly ignored ideas of Confucius (only kept idea of “meritocracy”) Mongols Foreigners North Chinese South Chinese

Yuan Dynasty & Trade Promoted trade along Silk Road Trade led to new foreign contacts Marco Polo’s book made Europeans curious about China

Fall of Yuan Dynasty Successors of Kublai Khan not interested in governing China Frequent rebellions after death of Kublai Khan