Kublai Khan and the Yuan Dynasty
Trace how Kublai Khan conquered China and established the Yuan Dynasty after dividing the Mongol Empire into four khanates in Grade 7 medieval history.
Key Concepts
After Genghis Khan died, his massive empire was too large for one person to rule. His sons and grandsons divided the territory into four successor states. These new empires were called khanates.
One of the most powerful descendants was Kublai Khan . He completed the Mongol conquest of China and moved the capital to Beijing. In 1279, he established a new Chinese dynasty under Mongol rule, known as the Yuan dynasty.
Common Questions
How was the Mongol Empire divided after Genghis Khan's death?
After Genghis Khan's death, his massive empire was divided among his sons and grandsons into four successor states called khanates. The empire was simply too large for one ruler to control effectively. Each khanate operated independently while maintaining Mongol cultural identity.
What did Kublai Khan accomplish in China?
Kublai Khan completed the Mongol conquest of China and moved the capital to Beijing, establishing a new Chinese dynasty under Mongol rule. In 1279, he founded the Yuan Dynasty, making himself emperor of China. He ruled an empire that stretched from the Pacific Ocean to Central Asia.
What was the Yuan Dynasty?
The Yuan Dynasty was the Chinese imperial dynasty established by Kublai Khan in 1279, representing Mongol rule over China. It was named the Yuan, meaning 'origin,' by Kublai Khan himself. This dynasty lasted until 1368, when Chinese forces overthrew the Mongols and established the Ming Dynasty.