This lesson examines why Islam gained influence among Mongols and other peoples of the Inner Asian Steppe, and how Sufism helped make conversion a gradual process.
The Eurasian Steppe had long been a meeting place for different religions. Merchants and travelers carried beliefs across its routes, and communities of Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, and others lived in the region. Islam was already the faith of most people in many steppe lands before Mongol rulers embraced it.
All flashcards
Sufism
A current within Islam emphasizing spiritual discipline, meditation, and reflection.
Yassa
The Mongol legal code, which some Mongols continued to follow while accepting Islamic teachings.
Il-Khanate
The Mongol state founded by Hulagu, weakened by external wars and succession struggles.
Golden Horde
A Mongol state that ruled northwest Asia and the lands of the Rus.
Yam
The Mongol communication and transport network, which continued after Mongol rule faded.
Quiz questions
Which factors contributed to the conflict between Hulagu and Berke?Answer: Berke opposed Hulagu's destruction of Baghdad and disputed his claims to tribute and succession.
What helped bring the Song resistance to an end at Yamen in 1279?Answer: Mongol forces cut off the Song fleet from supplies, and its water ran out.
How did Golden Horde rule differ for many Turkish groups and Slavic rulers?Answer: Turkish groups were often ruled indirectly, while Slavic rulers faced closer Mongol supervision.
How did the Yuan examination system favor non-Chinese candidates after it was reinstated?Answer: Non-Chinese candidates took shorter exams, and a share of successful candidates was reserved for them.
How did excessive Yuan paper-currency issuance contribute to inflation?Answer: The amount issued exceeded what the government could redeem in metal or silk.
Based on World History Volume 1, to 1500 by Ann Kordas, Ryan J. Lynch, Brooke Nelson, Julie Tatlock (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.