The Mongol Empire

The Mongol Empire (1206–1368) was the largest contiguous land empire in history, stretching from Korea to Hungary at its peak. Founded by Genghis Khan (Temüjin) in 1206, the empire united the nomadic Mongol tribes and conquered vast territories through superior military tactics, including mobility on horseback and psychological warfare. At its greatest extent under Kublai Khan, the empire controlled approximately 24 million km² and about 100 million people. The Mongols established the Pax Mongolica, promoting trade along the Silk Road, religious tolerance, and communication networks (Yam postal system). The empire fragmented into khanates after Kublai Khan's death.