Genghis Khan's most significant contribution to the Mongol empire was the creation of a code of laws, referred to as the great Yasa.

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The world has had many successful leaders. Alexander the Great, Hannibal, Julius Caesar and Philip the Great of Macedon once raised to power and built or expanded an empire. None however were as influential as Genghis Khan, ruler of Mongolia. He transformed the nomads of the Mongolian steppes to a mighty empire, which defeated such world powers as China and the Islamic world. Genghis Khan and his successors expanded their territory westward as far as Poland, and eastward to include all of China, thus making it the largest empire that has so far existed. Contrary to people’s beliefs Genghis Khan was not a murderous tyrant, but a brilliant savage that fought out of necessity and for the good of his people. To the Mongols, he was viewed as a hero and a beloved father. He promoted the growth of trade throughout Asia, created a code of laws and was a great military strategist.

        Under Genghis Khan’s rule trade flourished. Before Genghis Khan the nomadic people living on the steppes were used to trading only for things they could not make themselves. Chinese merchants forced the Mongols to trade their agricultural goods and art works for cheap tools and weapons. As the trade routes started to establish under Genghis Khan, however, Mongolian goods, ornaments in particular became highly valuable. Portable art, such as decorated saddles, jewelry, clothing, and textiles made by Mongolian artisans were admired by Muslim and European Merchants. Mongolian art was introduced to the entire known world in a short period of time as a result of trade. Consequently, Mongolian tribes became wealthier and transformed into a civilization.  

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Under Mongol rule and protection, the Silk Road gained travelers and convoys that could travel throughout the Mongol Empire without the fear of being attacked by thieves. The peace that the Mongols kept over the Silk Road helped to easily ship weapons and essential supplies to feed the great Mongolian army.

Genghis Khan encouraged trade along the famous Silk Road and formed additional trade routes throughout the Eurasian continent and Middle East. With the increase in trade between Eurasia and Europe the western and eastern cultures were brought together, allowing them to mix. Skillful Mongol weavers wove colorful cloths, ...

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