Storm from the East: Genghis Khan and the Mongols

Genghis Khan's successors conquered and governed an area from Korea to the River Danube, but many writers dismiss them as just ferocious barbarians. This bestselling book sets the record straight, describing their devastating invasions and the epic start and decline of their empires.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Canelo

The Mongol Empire, founded by Genghis Khan, was one of the largest empires in history, spanning over twice the size of Alexander's empire. Genghis Khan's successors continued to conquer and govern vast territories, extending from Korea to the River Danube. Despite their remarkable achievements, many writers have portrayed the Mongols as mere barbarians. In this comprehensive book, Robert Marshall challenges this perception and provides a detailed account of the Mongol Empire's rise and fall.

The book begins in 1206, when Genghis Khan became the master of a vast nomadic empire. It traces the subsequent conquests of the Mongols, including their devastating invasions of feudal Europe and the clumsy attempts of Christendom to understand and defend against these legendary warriors.

Marshall vividly describes the Mongols' military tactics, their use of advanced siege warfare, and their ability to adapt to different environments. He also delves into the cultural and social aspects of the Mongol Empire, highlighting the contributions of Mongol rulers to art, literature, and science.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Storm from the East is its portrayal of the Mongols as a complex and multifaceted civilization. Marshall argues that the Mongols were not just savage conquerors but also skilled administrators, builders, and traders. He highlights the Mongols' tolerance for different religions and cultures and their efforts to promote trade and commerce across their vast empire.

Despite their achievements, the Mongol Empire eventually declined and fell, largely due to internal conflicts and the challenges posed by the rise of new powers in Europe and Asia. Marshall provides a detailed account of the empire's decline, including the rise of the Timurid Empire in Central Asia and the eventual unification of China under Kublai Khan.

Storm from the East is a well-researched and engaging book that offers a fresh perspective on the Mongol Empire. It is filled with extraordinary events, painted on a vast and colorful canvas, and brings to life a time when East and West finally came face to face and the contours of modern Asia were set. While the book does not seek to excuse Mongol excesses, it appears to speak for the Mongols themselves, providing a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of a civilization that has often been misunderstood and misrepresented.

In conclusion, Storm from the East is a must-read for anyone interested in history, military strategy, or the cultural and social aspects of the Mongol Empire. Robert Marshall's book sets the record straight, challenging the perception of the Mongols as mere barbarians and providing a comprehensive and nuanced account of their remarkable achievements.

Weight: 190g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800326460