Final answer:
Genghis Khan's most significant impact was the creation of the largest land empire that facilitated global trade and cultural exchanges. His empire's legacy contributed to modern nation states and global connectivity. Absence of his empire could have led to a slower progression of globalization.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the most significant effects of Genghis Khan's influence on history is arguably the establishment of the largest contiguous land empire in history and the impact that had on global trade and cultural exchanges. The Mongol Empire facilitated a vast trade network, often called the Silk Road, which connected the East and West, leading to an unprecedented exchange of goods, ideas, technologies, and cultures. Additionally, it laid down the foundations for modern nations through the destruction or assimilation of various kingdoms and the introduction of novel administrative and military reforms.
If not for Genghis Khan and the Mongols, the world might have experienced a slower progression of globalization and possibly a different configuration of modern nations. The negative aspects include the sheer scale of destruction and loss of life due to the conquests, which are deeply embedded in the collective memory of the affected regions. The Mongol invasions also led to significant demographic changes and influenced the subsequent history of regions including China, Central Asia, and the Middle East.