Key conquests include:
- Central Asia: The Mongols conquered the vast steppes of Central Asia, subjugating numerous nomadic tribes, including the Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and Kyrgyz.
- China: The Mongols established the Yuan Dynasty in China after defeating the Song Dynasty. They ruled China for nearly a century, from 1271 to 1368.
- Persia: The Mongols conquered the vast Persian region, including modern-day Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan, defeating several powerful dynasties like the Khwarazmian Empire.
- Russia: The Mongols invaded and conquered most of Russia, including Kievan Rus, establishing the Golden Horde, which ruled over much of Russia for over two centuries.
- Eastern Europe: The Mongol conquests extended into Eastern Europe, reaching Poland, Hungary, and the Balkan regions, causing widespread destruction and forcing European kingdoms to submit or pay tribute.
- Middle East: The Mongols invaded the Middle East, capturing Baghdad and overthrowing the Abbasid Caliphate. They briefly controlled parts of Syria and Anatolia.
- Korea: The Mongols conquered Korea and established the Goryeo Dynasty as a tributary state.
The Mongol conquests were marked by both brutality and efficiency. They employed superior military tactics, including swift cavalry charges, advanced siege weaponry, and effective strategies for encircling and defeating their enemies.