Question

In the article "World's Leaders: Genghis Khan," was the Khan a blood dealer of death OR an enlightened ruler with great understanding? You must cite your sources from your position in the article. Don't forget to use quotations when necessary.

a) "The Khan was a ruthless conqueror, spreading death and destruction throughout his empire."
b) "Genghis Khan was an enlightened ruler, known for his tolerance and understanding of different cultures."
c) "Genghis Khan had both ruthless and enlightened aspects to his rule, depending on the context."
d) "Genghis Khan's true nature remains a mystery, as historical accounts vary."

Answer 1

Genghis Khan's legacy is multifaceted, with sources depicting him both as a ruthless conqueror and an enlightened ruler with advanced legal and military reforms and a policy of religious tolerance. His reign marked significant alterations in the medieval world, although the unity he created ultimately dissolved after his death.

Step-by-step explanation:

The debate over Genghis Khan's legacy is a complex one, as historical accounts offer different perspectives. On one hand, certain sources paint him as a ruthless conqueror who was interested in the peaceful acquisition of goods despite his violent means. This fierce approach towards expansion and governance created vast changes in the regions he conquered, setting the stage for the modern world. On the other hand, there are accounts of his enlightened rule, highlighting his legal reforms with the Yassa, his move towards a more sophisticated military, and his famed religious tolerance, whereby he invited intellectual and spiritual exchanges among various religions within his empire.

Despite his empire being responsible for great violence, there was also an intent to foster peace and prosperity, as seen in the actions of his son praised by Rashid Al-Din. Moreover, Genghis Khan's vision to end strife and warfare on the steppe also suggests a dualistic nature to his rule. However, post his reign, the unity he built unraveled, highlighting the complexity and perhaps the inherently contradictory aspects of his legacy.