MONGOL COMPARATIVE ESSAY

THESIS Needs to incorporate economic and political similarities and differences of Mongol rule between two of the following: China Russia Middle East

Sample Thesis Statements

THESIS The Mongols exerted both political and economic control over China and Russia. However, Mongol influence in China was characterized by direct rule and control over the Silk Road trade routes whereas in Russia, Mongol rule was indirect and economic influence was seen mostly through taxes.

POLITICAL SIMILARITIES The Mongols incorporated both China and Russia into their massive empire and established khanates in each area. Why? (Don’t forget your analysis) Mongols were power hungry and used brutal terror tactics to conquer each area Both were significant land masses and khanates increased Mongol power and control over Eurasia

ECONOMIC SIMILARITIES The Mongols promoted Eurasian trade in both China and Russia Both were taxed by the Mongols (wealth extracted) Why? (Don’t forget your analysis) Mongols saw enormous economic benefits in controlling trade networks and therefore spent time and energy insuring they were secure

POLITICAL DIFFERENCES China Russia Yuan Dynasty established direct rule over China (Kublai Khan) Ruled about 100 years (1271-1368) Continued administrative practices of Chinese, but ignored civil service exam and gave highest positions to Mongols Laws discriminated against Chinese Pax Mongolia Golden Horde or Kipchack Khanate established indirect rule over Russia Ruled over 200 years (1250-1480) Russian princes maintained power, but subject to border raids

ECONOMIC DIFFERENCES Elevated the status of merchants in China Russia Elevated the status of merchants in China Pax Mongolia Improved roads, built canals Taxes and tribute given to Mongols places financial burden on Russia

WHY??? China Russia China had more to offer than Russia so Mongols saw benefits in total occupation (one of the most advanced civilizations that ever existed – silk, porcelain, gunpowder – enormous wealth) Russia was viewed as lacking development as well as lacking advances Cold brutal climate so no desire to occupy Rule from outskirts, but have Russians make payments.