## TL;DR

The Mongol Empire (1206-1368) was the largest contiguous land empire in history (24 million km² at its peak). Founded by Genghis Khan (Temujin) who united Mongol tribes. Mongols were fearsome warriors but also facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and religious tolerance across Eurasia (Pax Mongolica).

## Core Explanation

Genghis Khan (1162-1227): meritocratic leadership, unified tribes, innovative military (horse archers, feigned retreats). Empire split into four khanates after his death. Kublai Khan founded Yuan Dynasty in China (1271). Pax Mongolica (13th-14th centuries): safe trade across Eurasia, Marco Polo's travels, spread of technologies (gunpowder, paper). Legacy: connected East and West, reshaped demographics.

## Further Reading

- [Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World (Jack Weatherford)](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/164748/genghis-khan-and-the-making-of-the-modern-world-by-jack-weatherford/)