In our latest exclusive, we sit down with Marie Favereau, an Associate Professor of History at the Paris Nanterre University. Favereau has recently penned a riveting new book entitled "The Horde: How the Mongols Changed the World"
“The Horde was neither a conventional empire nor a dynastic state, even less a nation-state...” The opening line of "The Horde: How the Mongols Changed the World" by Marie Favereau is the source of this intriguing quote. You might be pondering, "what exactly is a Horde?" Favereau provides an enlightening explanation: “It was a great nomadic regime born from the Mongol expansion of the thirteenth century, an equestrian regime that became so powerful it ruled virtually all of today’s Russia, including western Siberia, for almost three centuries.”
Marie Favereau is an associate professor of History at Paris Nanterre University, member of the French Institute for Oriental Archaeology, and member of the major project "Nomadic Empire” (
https://nomadicempires.history. ox.ac.uk/) at the University of Oxford.
With an engaging narrative and meticulous research, "The Horde" by Marie Favereau presents an intriguing exploration of the Mongol Empire. The book, filled with compelling details and captivating insights, tells the story of the Mongols and their transformative influence on global history.
Contextually, the roots of the Golden Horde lie in the events following Zuchi's passing in the 1240s. His descendants, warriors, and their kin began a journey to an area between the Volga- Urals and the Black Sea, known for its mild climate. Here, a unique Mongol state, separate from the original Mongol Empire, was born. The initial steps involved setting up an administrative structure. The Mongols, steadfastly adhering to their cultural customs, firmly established themselves in this newly acquired territory, forsaking any aspirations of returning. Over three decades, the population exploded from a humble few thousand to numerous hundreds of thousands, aiding the creation of a sophisticated social structure aimed at building an autonomous empire. When visualized on a modern map, the scope of the Golden Horde would cover the lands of Ukraine, Bulgaria, Moldova, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Russia, including Tatarstan and Crimea.
Favereau's book is not just a historical account but also an investigative masterpiece that delves into the heart of the Mongol Empire. It takes readers on a vivid journey across the vast landscapes of Asia and Europe, painting a vibrant picture of the world as it was under the rule of the Golden Horde. The book unfolds the might and majesty of the Mongol Empire, which propelled a new era of trade, diplomacy, cultural exchange, and warfare.
"The Horde" challenges conventional perceptions about the Mongols, often depicted as savage conquerors. Instead, it introduces readers to their sophisticated political and economic systems, progressive policies, and tolerance towards different cultures and religions. Favereau's book showcases how the Golden Horde was instrumental in shaping geopolitical boundaries, influencing trade routes, and fostering cultural exchanges between East and West. It emphasizes that the Mongols were not just ruthless warriors but also skilled administrators and shrewd diplomats.
Beyond being a comprehensive historical narrative, "The Horde: How the Mongols Changed the World" is a meticulous study that combines archival sources with modern scholarly research. It unravels the complexity of the Mongol Empire and its lasting impact on world history. The book is a must-read for history buffs and anyone interested in understanding how a nomadic tribe from the steppes of Mongolia established one of the largest empires in history.
Marie Favereau's book serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Mongol Empire and its Golden Horde. It reminds us that history is not merely about dates and events but also about understanding complex socio-political dynamics that shape our present world. It imparts valuable lessons about leadership, tolerance, diplomacy, and resilience that are as relevant today as they were during the reign of the Mongols. So, whether you are an avid historian or a casual reader looking to venture into world history, "The Horde: How the Mongols Changed the World" promises an enlightening and captivating journey.
Interview with Marie Favereau
-As a researcher of the Golden Horde and the Mongol Empire, could you delve deeper into the core aspects of your research?
-My research is concentrated on the exploration of the Mongol Empire, with unique emphasis on the Golden Horde. These subject piques my interest due to the transformative impact the Mongols had when they founded the Golden Horde. They implemented their distinct governance style, worldviews, language, culture, commerce, communication methods, and religion. In essence, they transferred the nomadic lifestyle, a hallmark of Mongolia, to Europe. The transmission of this extraordinary nomadic culture to Europe via the Mongols is a captivating feature that I find singularly appealing.
The cultural effect and additional values that the Mongols transported to Europe lingered for three hundred years and acted as the basis for further advancement within the Golden Horde. With this understanding, I have chosen to compose a book that delves into this subject.
It's prevalent, particularly in Europe, to concentrate on the historical narrative of the rise and fall of the Mongol Empire. Nevertheless, my research highlights the Golden Horde-an influential state born from the extension of the Mongol Empire. This state endured across Eurasia for 300 years and its legacy had a considerable influence in the formation of contemporary governing structures, aiding in the progression of history and culture, and the establishment of specific territories and boundaries. My aim is to share these discoveries grounded on factual proof.
-How did the influence of the Mongol Empire and the Golden Horde shape the XVI century and contribute to transformative global discoveries, ultimately shaping the modern world?
-The Mongol Empire, which existed from the XIII to the XV centuries, holds a significant place in world history. As historical events unfold, one period often influences the next. Therefore, the Mongol Empire's impact during the XIII-XV centuries naturally extended into the XVI century. It was during this time that the Renaissance emerged in Europe. The Renaissance, a period of great cultural and intellectual development, played a crucial role in shaping the world we inhabit today. Hence, the gradual progression of historical stages, including the Mongol Empire, the XVI century influence, and the Renaissance, paved the way for the new era we find ourselves in today.
The Mongols' profound influence on European society is a key factor in the advent of the Renaissance. They introduced novel systems of organization, traditions, culture, language, and religion, all of which had considerable impact on Europeans. This influence incited an era of intellectual curiosity and openmindedness within the region. Europeans started to prioritize education and knowledge, laying the groundwork for future ambitions and objectives. Absent the knowledge, free trade, and diverse viewpoints brought by the Mongols, it's debatable whether the Renaissance or any subsequent new age would have come into existence. I have underscored the importance of this historical link in my book, amplifying the notion that the Mongols' powerful influence is at the root of contemporary European development.
-Could you elaborate on the primary motivations and strategic objectives behind the Mongol invasions?
-Within the realm of Russian historical studies, Mongolians have frequently been depicted as barbaric intruders and destroyers. This perspective has long formed the basis of the historical account of Mongol invasions. Nonetheless, I argue that this interpretation is not accurate. The underlying objective of the Mongol invasions was not to annihilate or demolish. Rather, the Mongols intended to implement a centralized governance and control over their nomadic populace, thereby instating order globally and creating a secure, efficient framework for international relations, economy, and commerce. The emergence of the Golden Horde state is attributed to this policy.
Throughout both the Mongol Empire's invasion and the Golden Horde's reign, the Mongols did not adopt a strategy of expansion and domination through destruction and slaughter. Instead, the Mongols, upon establishing order in the countries they sub[1]jugated, aimed to bring together diverse populations of varying ethnicities, cultures, and religions. They accorded respect and recognition to the fundamental culture and religion of the conquered territories, permitting the inhabitants to go on with their lives unimpeded. Trade engagements were carried out without unnecessary hurdles.
This strategy of preserving order, honoring a multitude of cultures and religions, and facilitating unhindered trade has resulted in the term "Pax Mongolica" being associated with this era in global history. This term embodies the relative peace and stability that existed under Mongol dominion, promoting interconnectivity and affluence across various regions.
-Reflecting on the intriguing timeline of the Golden Horde, which remarkably outlasted even the Mongol Empire by clocking in three centuries of existence–what do you think were the key factors or strategies that contributed to its longevity?
-In my view, the extraordinary length of the Golden Horde's reign, exceeding 300 years, can be attributed to two primary factors. The first pertains to the establishment of robust mutual trade and economic networks during the rule of Zuchi, which was integral to their enduring presence. The strategic geopolitical positioning served as a crucial bridge between Europe and Asia and linked the South to the North. The Golden Horde's strategy of intertwining diplomacy with commerce and market systems had a significant impact on its sustained existence.
The second factor is the inclusive and unbiased diplomatic approach the Golden Horde utilized towards regions under its rule and neighboring territories. It did not discriminate based on nationality, ethnicity, or faith. Indeed, the Horde incorporated a diverse populace of Christians and Muslims. The policy of the Golden Horde to accept anyone who pledged loyalty to it acted as a magnet that attracted and unified a multitude of peoples and nations, encouraging expansion and progress. These combined aspects facilitated the Golden Horde's survival for over three centuries.
-Can you elucidate on the key factors that precipitated the downfall of the Golden Horde?
-The decline and disintegration of the Golden Horde can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the Mongol Empire's highly interconnected trade and diplomacy with the rest of the world played a significant role. However, during the second part of the 14th century, a devastating plague pandemic occurred, affecting the Golden Horde's main trade partners and resulting in a significant loss of life. Although the Mongols themselves suffered from the plague to a lesser extent due to their nomadic lifestyle, their trade partners, upon whom they relied heavily, were greatly affected.
The rise of the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century further contributed to the Golden Horde's decline. The Ottomans gained control over the Black Sea, a crucial gateway connecting the Golden Horde to Europe, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean area. By blocking the Black Sea, the Ottomans disrupted the Golden Horde's trade routes and hampered their economic activities.
Furthermore, the decline of the Mongol Empire, including the collapse of the Yuan Dynasty and the Il khans, had a profound impact on the Golden Horde. The diminishing connections between regions due to the contraction of the Mongol Empire disrupted the social space of the Golden Horde, making it increasingly difficult to maintain trade and diplomatic relations.
The decline of their empire also led to a loss of connections through means such as marriage, which previously facilitated exchanges between the East and the West.
In summary, the decline and disintegration of the Golden Horde can be attributed to multiple interconnected factors. These and their control over the Black Sea, the decline of the Mongol Empire and the disruption of connections with other regions, and the overall decline in trade and economic relations due to external pressures. These challenges forced the Golden Horde to adapt and ultimately contributed to their decline as an influential power.
-In the intricate task of defining the Empire, what obstacles did you grapple with? How did your involvement with the 'Nomadic Empire” project and the intellectual exchange with scholars at Oxford University catalyze in overcoming these challenges?
-Before I began my research on the Mongol Empire, I had already published books, particularly on the history of Egypt, relationship between the Mamluks, the Sultanate in Egypt and Syria. However, I had a strong desire to write a book specifically about the Mongol Empire and the Golden Horde, catering to the needs of students who would benefit from a handbook.
The challenge arose when I tried to define this unique empire to others, including colleagues focused on Western topics. They would question and argue that the definition did not fit the conventional definition of an empire. The organization and structure were different, making it difficult to convince them. However, while at Oxford, I had the fortune of meeting scholars who were experts in the study of nomadic powers. One academic, whose area of expertise was American Indians, brought to light the existence of a noteworthy empire in 19th century America – the Comanche Empire. This comparison led us to recognize that the problem was rooted in the interpretation of an empire derived from studies on the Roman Empire or stationary agricultural empires. We were dealing with an entirely different form of power, prompting us to abandon the conventional definition in favor of our own.
Hence, I decided to maintain the term "Horde" in my work, as it holds great importance in highlighting the distinct nature of this nomadic power, without any equivalent in the Western context. Oxford played a crucial role in deepening my understanding and providing substantial support throughout the writing process of this book.
-What are the main areas of interest in your ongoing research and what are your objectives within those areas?
-“Research is a constant endeavor, and it feels like this is just the beginning.”
Firstly, I’m interested in investigating the link between the Golden Horde and the Mongol Empire. Secondly, while Chinese researchers are delving into the history of the Yuan Dynasty and Russian researchers are examining the Russian Empire, I hope to bridge the gap between these researchers and foster a collaborative research community that amalgamates ideas and promotes a unified approach to individual studies. For instance, this collaboration could provide insights into the connections between the histories of the Yuan Dynasty, the Russian Empire, and the Golden Horde.
Thirdly, I've been gathering information from Turkish archives that stretch back to the Golden Horde's era. I'm curious to find out if the terminology associated with the Golden Horde corresponds to the Mongolian language of that period. This requires a thorough analysis of which words correlate and which do not, as well as understanding the reasons for these discrepancies. Presenting these findings accurately in the context of world history is a formidable challenge.
Lastly, I plan to extend my research on the long-lasting impact of the Mongol Empire and the Golden Horde. My study focuses on the historical examination of the Mongol Empire with a specific emphasis on the Golden Horde. Consequently, it encompasses not only an exploration of the Mongol Empire and the Golden Horde but also an investigation into the broader history of the Mongols.
In conclusion, she stressed that her main goal in undertaking historical research is to enhance public understanding that history is more than just written records destined for oblivion. Rather, she views history as a continuous link connecting the past, present, and future. Indeed, history acts as the essential strand that intertwines the stories of the past, present, and future. As a result, she spoke of her commitment to in-depth investigation of the significant influence of history on people's lives, both now and in times to come.
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