~Kublai Khan
Kublai Kahn, Mongolian leader in the 13th century was the grandson of Genghis Khan - the more famous leader of the Mongol Hoards. Kublai was apparently a bit more civilized than his grandpapa, giving up the nomadic lifestyle of his ancestors and adopting Chinese ways, formally establishing the Yuan Dynasty.
The Yuan Dynasty was a progressive period for China. An economy based mainly on agriculture the production techniques used at this time were superior to any seen in previous dynasties. Early in the Yuan Dynasty a 51-mile long canal was built in the capital Dadu (currently Beijing) making transportation of goods easier. Economic development during the Yuan Dynasty, included the encouragement of foreign trade, and the circulation of paper money which added to prosperity. In the areas of science, mathematics, and medicine the Yuan dynasty saw much growth. The arts also flourished with literature, poetry, and song.
Kublai Khan and Henry VIII - separated at birth?
Kublai Khan tried to conquer Japan in 1274 and 1281 and was deterred from victory, both times. According to Japanese legend the invasion was stopped by the Divine (or Kamikaze) Wind of two typhoons. The Mongol fleet was decimated both times.
Archeologists believe shipwreck found off Japan belongs to Kublai Khan’s 13th-century lost fleet.
"Explorers found the 20-meter-long shipwreck by using ultra-sound equipment some 25 meters off the coast of Nagasaki. Archeologists believe the ship dates back to 1281, and was part of a 4,400-vessel fleet that China's Mongol rulers during the Yuan Dynasty had employed as an invasion force."
Note: The Yuan Dynasty is a really interesting time in history. I am going to make it a point to learn more about it.
Something else I learned: Kublai Khan was not a very talkative guy. The quote above and this one "Why do you speak to me of the stones? It is only the arch that matters to me" seem to be the only things he every said. (Search for Kublai Khan quotes. You'll see.)
Grandpa Genghis was a brilliant leader, not deserving of his terrible reputation. He actually began civilizing nations with his basic rules of living together peacefully. But first he had to get the thundering hoard's attention so he could teach them some basic rules.
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