1. The Mongol Empire

2. Genghis Khan Fierce, powerful Mongol leader (1162 to 1227)  Consolidates Mongolian tribes  Creates a Mongolian Empire  Name means “Universal Ruler” Genghis’ legacy:  Unity  Religious tolerance  Written language for the Mongolians

3. Kublai Khan “Great Khan”  Grandson of Genghis 1271 – establishes Yuan Dynasty  Adopts many Chinese beliefs, customs and institutions

4. Staff Page “Mongols Reading” 1. Why did horses play such an important role in the success of the Mongols? 2. What technological improvements did the Mongols devise to make their armies more effective? 3. How does the battle of Kalka River illustrate the Mongol battle tactics? 4. Describe the weapons carried by the soldiers in the heavy cavalry. What do you think would be the major difficulty for riders?

5. Why did horses play such a important role in the success of the Mongols? 1. Military advantage 2. Food

6. What technological improvements did the Mongols devise to make their armies more effective? 1. Compound Bow – shoots over 350 yards!! 2. Stirrups; improved horse saddle 3. Skilled with a bow on horseback

7. How does the battle of Kalka River illustrate the Mongol battle tactics? 1. Fake retreat 2. Flank – attack from sides and back

8. Describe the weapons carried by the soldiers in the heavy cavalry. What do you think would be the major difficulty for riders? 1. 2 bows 2. Lasso Difficulty – managing all of their equipment!

9. Decline of the Yuan Reasons: 1)Huang He (Yellow) River floods causing destruction and famine 2)String of weak successors 3)Chinese unrest