Final answer:
The Khanate of the Golden Horde was a division of the Mongol Empire that included parts of modern-day Russia and central Asia, established by Batu Khan. It was characterized by a nomadic ruling class, diverse subject peoples, and frequent conflicts with other khanates despite a common religion. The Golden Horde maintained a distinct identity and avoided internal civil war for a longer period than some other khanates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Khanate of the Golden Horde refers to one of the four major divisions of the Mongol Empire after the death of Genghis Khan. It was established by Batu Khan, the grandson of Genghis Khan, and included territories in modern-day Russia and central Asia. The Golden Horde rulers, such as Batu and Berke, maintained nomadic lifestyles, roaming with their armies and establishing a capital primarily for the collection of tribute. They exercised control over various peoples, ranging from the Turkish Kipchaks to the settled Slavic peasants, often ruling through local leaders while ensuring the flow of taxes and suppressing rebellion.
Mongke Khan's ascension in 1251 brought temporary hope for a reunified Mongol Empire, but internal power struggles soon led to the fragmentation. The Golden Horde, along with other khanates like the Il-Khanate and the Chagatai Khanate, declared their independence, evolving separately and often engaging in conflicts with each other. Over time, the rulers of these khanates, including the Golden Horde, converted to Islam, though this shared religion did not prevent disputes among them.
Despite the deteriorating unity, the Golden Horde maintained a unique identity within the Mongol legacy. It controlled regions that were less economically developed compared to other khanates and managed to avoid internal strife for a longer period after the fall of the Il-Khanate.The international system of khanates was marked by economic interdependence and sustained personal and family ties among the descendants of Genghis Khan, reflecting their continued investment in the regions they ruled.