LESSON 10.2 How do we know about the Mongol expansion?
LEARNING INTENTION By the end of this lesson you should be able to explain that what we know about the past depends largely on the sources we find, who created them and why.
Tune in The paiza , or Mongol passport, shown in SOURCE1 was used by those travelling through the Mongol Empire on official business. It was worn around the neck so that it would be visible to customs officers who would let the wearer pass. The inscription reads, ‘By the strength of Eternal Heaven, an edict of the Emperor [Khan], he who has no respect shall be guilty.’ Compare SOURCE1 to a modern-day passport. In what ways is this paiza similar, and in what ways is it different?
SOURCE1 A paiza
10.2.1 Mongol expansion sources In this topic, we will explore the Age of the Mongols, from about 1206 to 1368 CE. For many, this was a time of war and destruction inflicted by the Mongol army. For others, it was a time of peace, when ideas and religions could be shared and cultural barriers between Europe and Asia were lowered. This peace helped spread ideas and allowed scholars to write more. Many written records survived because there was less war and more sharing of knowledge. 10.2.2 State history Governments often create official histories to be remembered by future generations. A few decades after Genghis Khan’s death, the Mongol leaders commissioned a writer to document his life and that of his son in The Secret History of the Mongols . This book was meant for the Mongolian rulers and celebrated Khan’s heroic deeds. It included lessons for keeping the empire strong (see SOURCE2 ).
Jacaranda Humanities Alive 8 Victorian Curriculum Third Edition
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