Case Study: The Openness of the Yuan Dynasty
Examine how the Yuan Dynasty's Pax Mongolica enabled Marco Polo's 1275 journey to China and sparked European desire for Asian trade routes in Grade 7 history.
Key Concepts
During the Yuan Dynasty , the Mongol Empire controlled the Silk Road, making it safe for travel. This peace allowed a young Italian merchant named Marco Polo to journey all the way to China in 1275.
He served the emperor, Kublai Khan, for almost 20 years. Polo was amazed by the wealth and technology of China, including its grand palaces, paper money, and the use of coal for heat—things unheard of in Europe.
Common Questions
How did the Yuan Dynasty enable Marco Polo's travels?
The Mongol Empire's control of the Silk Road during the Yuan Dynasty created a period of safety known as the Pax Mongolica, making long-distance travel possible. This peace allowed the young Italian merchant Marco Polo to travel to China in 1275. Without Mongol security over the trade routes, such a journey would have been extremely dangerous.
What did Marco Polo observe in Yuan Dynasty China?
Marco Polo served Emperor Kublai Khan for nearly 20 years and was amazed by China's grand palaces, paper money, and the use of coal for heat—things unknown in Europe. He marveled at the empire's wealth and advanced technology. His observations described a civilization far more developed than contemporary Europe.
How did Marco Polo's book influence European exploration?
When Polo returned to Europe, his published accounts of China's riches captivated readers and sparked a powerful desire to reach Asia's treasures. His descriptions inspired European rulers to fund expeditions seeking new sea routes to Asia. This longing directly contributed to the Age of Exploration.