Genghis Khan Didn't Bring Down Central Asia's Medieval River Civilizations. But Climate Change Did

A new study challenges the long-held view that the destruction of 13th-century societies in the heart of Asia was a direct result of the Mongol invasion.

By Anamaria Silic
Mar 3, 2021 6:00 PM
genghis khan on a horse - shutterstock
(Credit: Albina Tiplyashina/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

In 1206, Genghis Khan began the Mongol invasion, leading a horse-driven bow-wielding military force that swept through much of modern-day Asia into the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Over the course of the century-and-a-half run of the Mongol Empire, about a quarter of the world's total land area was conquered and an estimated 40 million people were slaughtered. Today, the name of Genghis Khan remains a byword for brutality, terror and military power. But, according to new research, Khan had an unexpected ally in his conquests: climate change.  

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.