Here are some key aspects of life as a Mongol warrior and leader:
• Mongol society was largely based on tribal allegiances and loyalties. Genghis Khan unified several rival tribes under his rule, but tribal ties were still important. Mongol leaders had to maintain good relations with the leaders of other tribes to build alliances. These alliances were crucial for military campaigns, trade, and resolving disputes.
• Life was hard and violence was common. As a warrior tribe, the Mongols frequently engaged in raids, skirmishes, and all-out warfare with other tribes. Both men and women knew hardship and loss of life. Most Mongols lived a nomadic lifestyle, moving with their animals.
• There were clear hierarchies and rules of submission. Mongol society was highly stratified with the Khan at the top, followed by nobles, generals, soldiers, and serfs. Everyone had to show unconditional obedience to those of higher status. Disobedience could be punished cruelly.
• Relations with other civilizations were varied. The Mongols were willing to absorb conquered peoples into their ranks, as long as they showed submission. Some were given privileged status. But the Mongols also frequently massacred populations who resisted them. Their aim was generally to loot resources and demand tributes from the peoples they conquered.
• Life revolved around the army, warfare, horsemanship, hunting, and raiding. The Mongol army was a mobile society, and life as a warrior was hard. horses were central to Mongol life, used for transportation, warfare, hunting, and more. Most Mongol men were accomplished horsemen and hunters from a young age.
• There were complex rituals and beliefs regarding religion, spirituality, and the afterlife. Mongols practiced a form of shamanism and animism, with a belief in spirits, reincarnation, and the importance of living a virtuous life to achieve a good afterlife. But Mongol rulers also adopted elements of other faiths like Tibetan Buddhism.
That covers some of the key aspects of life as a Mongol warrior and leader. Let me know if you have any other questions!