The Horde: How the Mongols Changed the World

The Mongols were a powerful engine of economic integration, with a unique political regime that rewarded skillful administrators and fostered a mobile, innovative economic order. They influenced state structures in Russia and across the Islamic world, disseminated sophisticated theories about the natural world, and introduced new ideas of religious tolerance. This book challenges our assumptions that nomads are peripheral to history and makes it clear that we live in a world shaped by Mongols.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Harvard University Press

The Mongols, renowned for their conquests, have a lesser-known side to their legacy. In her groundbreaking work, "The Horde: A History of the Western Mongols," Marie Favereau delves into the western portion of the Mongol empire, which emerged after the death of Chinggis Khan. What sets this history apart is Favereau's exploration of the Mongols' remarkable achievements in economic integration.

The Horde, as the western part of the Mongol empire, had a unique political regime that facilitated economic prosperity. A complex power-sharing arrangement between the khan and nobility rewarded skillful administrators and fostered a mobile and innovative economic order. From their capital on the lower Volga River, the Mongols exerted influence over state structures in Russia and across the Islamic world, disseminated sophisticated theories about the natural world, and introduced new ideas of religious tolerance.

"The Horde" is a captivating and comprehensive portrait of an empire that has been long overlooked. It challenges prevailing assumptions about nomads and their peripheral role in history. Favereau's work demonstrates that the Mongols played a significant role in shaping the world we live in today. The book offers a fresh perspective on the Mongols, portraying them as a sophisticated people with impressive talents for government and a deep understanding of the natural world.

The research behind "The Horde" is meticulous, and the author's arguments are well-reasoned and supported by extensive evidence. The book is impressively researched and intelligently reasoned, making it a valuable contribution to the field of history. It sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of world history and provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics of power, governance, and economic development.

In conclusion, "The Horde: A History of the Western Mongols" by Marie Favereau is a must-read for anyone interested in history, anthropology, or global economics. It offers a fresh perspective on the Mongols and their remarkable achievements, challenging our assumptions and illuminating the profound impact they had on world history. This book is a testament to Favereau's talent as a historian and her ability to bring historical events to life.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 141 x 210 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780674278653