Mongols' Methods of Conquering, Punishments, and Their Cultural Consequences

Abstract

This study aims to study how the Mongols used punishments, their impact on military campaigns, and their long-term consequences. The study uses historical-analytical methods, comparative historical analysis methods, statistical analysis methods, and geopolitical approaches to analyze the results of the Mongols' military strategies. Based on scientific sources, historical documents, and statistical data, the military, social, and economic consequences of the punishments carried out by the Mongols were assessed. The results show that the Mongols used punishments to break their enemies mentally and physically, forcing cities to quickly surrender. Punishment methods included the destruction of entire cities, building towers from the bones of executed people, disrupting economic infrastructure, and psychological warfare, which increased the effectiveness of military campaigns. However, excessive cruelty led to economic crisis, demographic decline, and the destruction of cultural heritage in the long run.  The destruction of agricultural systems meant that some regions could not recover for many years, and the destruction of cultural centers had a negative impact on the development of science. Although the Mongols' punitive policies were effective in the short term, they also harmed the empire itself in the long term. Excessive cruelty led to an increase in rebellions and a weakening of the governance system. The results of the study indicate the need for a comprehensive study of the Mongols' military strategy and their relationship to modern methods of warfare.