The Ming Dynasty had complex and changing attitudes toward the Mongols. Initially, the Ming Dynasty was hostile towards the Mongols due to the Mongol conquest of China under the Yuan Dynasty. The Ming founder, the Hongwu Emperor, led a rebellion against the Mongols and established the Ming Dynasty in 1368. The Ming Dynasty viewed the Mongols as their political enemy, and they engaged in military conflicts with them throughout their early history. However, as the Ming Dynasty consolidated its power, its attitude toward the Mongols began to change. The Ming Dynasty recognized the Mongols as a significant political force in the region and sought to establish diplomatic relations with them. The Yongle Emperor sent expeditions to Mongolia and established a tributary relationship with various Mongol tribes. Over time, the Ming Dynasty and the Mongols developed trade and cultural exchanges, and their relations became more amicable. However, the Ming Dynasty remained cautious about the Mongols and continued to view them as a potential threat.