The stereotypical image of Genghis Khan is a savage invader, who brought nothing but chaos and death is now firmly rooted in the public mind. Due to different reasons, the true precondition of such attitude lies in complete misunderstanding and lack of knowledge concerning this historical figure. Jack Weatherford tries to shed light on this highly ambiguous figure and his legacy.
Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World examines Genghis Khan’s impact on Western civilization. The major part of all improvements was made predominantly during so-called Pax Mongolica. This period of time is also known as the Mongol Peace. It was a time of peace, unshakable stability, rapid economic growth and widespread cultural development. During this period of time, Mongols made a great cultural expansion of Europe and Asia and were spreading different ideas and innovations all around Mongol Empire. Jack Weatherford believes that many aspects of modern life were made possible by trade that was enabled by Mongol Empire. Trade routes which were established by Genghis Khan contributed to further spread of paper, development of printing in Islamic countries. In addition, he ordered to adopt a writing system (Weatherford 70) to make communication more clear and to avoid …show more content…
The image of Genghis Khan suffers from prejudices and misunderstanding, but his deeds speak for themselves. He brought light into completely dark medieval. His invasion was a precondition for Renaissance in Europe and developed trade and postal system in Eurasia. He contributed the promotion of education and writing. His role in the development of Islamic world is undeniable. “This noble king was called Genghis Khan, who in his time was of so great renown, that there was nowhere, in no region so excellent, a lord in all things” (Weatherford