The Song dynasty was able to grow rich and powerful despite military setbacks through industrial and scientific advancements, such as moveable type and gunpowder. These advancements were in high demand in the rest of the world, and the Song dynasty was able to make a fortune trading. The invention of gunpowder and the creation of different types of gunpowder also allowed the Chinese forces to bolster their military through the use of land mines, which made it difficult for the invading Mongols to defeat them.