The Saber and Scroll Journal Volume 7, Issue 1, Winter 2018 | Page 47

In 1206, the Mongols, along with Turkish tribesmen, gathered and
prepared to embark on one of the most influential campaigns in world history. At
this time, Temujin took the name of Chinggis Qan, Qan—or Khan—meaning king
or ruler. Under his leadership, they poured out of Mongolia to conquer northern
China and Korea. 8 By 1216, the Mongols succeeded in their mission and moved
into Persia and, “By the end of 1221, Genghis Khan had crushed the Islamic
Khwarizmian Empire in Transoxiana and invaded the Ukrainian steppes.” 9 This
created the largest empire in recorded history.
Brutal Barbarian versus a Skilled Strategist and Leader
During the thirteenth century, Genghis Khan cemented his reputation as a
military leader due in part to his understanding of Sun Tzu, a leading eastern
military philosopher. Sun Tzu urged that the ultimate goal of offensive strategy is
to unite “All-under-Heaven intact,” as a means to resolve conflicts. 10 With this
unity, there would be no occasion for war. The fact that Khan aimed for such a
goal demonstrates his desire for peace and order, as well as his motivation to
develop one sovereign leadership. Based on his early life experiences, Khan
certainly had reasons to desire such a goal. To realize peace, unity, and order an
individual must devote themselves to the people’s welfare—practice benevolence
and righteousness. 11 Clearly, Genghis Khan agreed with Sun Tzu and the idea of
mass unity. So much so, that Khan expanded on this principle by aiming to unite
the entire world. It is relevant to point out that the goal of unity is peace and part of
his “moral” philosophy. This speaks to the true character and leadership methods
of the Great Khan.
One of the most important factors that encouraged Khan’s success was
that he was humble. He valued the advice of everyone, from his officers to his
living relatives—even his wives. His soldiers valued his humility because it made
them feel appreciated and respected by their leader. Those two aspects are crucial
in every leadership environment. Many of history’s greatest leaders, including
Cyrus the Great, Alexander the Great, and perhaps even Gustavus Adolphus of
Sweden shared this practice. Each of these men recognized the value of enduring
their subordinates’ hardship and listening to their concerns. And although Khan
was born of noble blood, he shared the hardships of battle with his men. Genghis
Khan courageously led his men into battle, risking his life in each conflict. He
utilized unusual tactics, weapons, diplomatic methods, and even various forms of
technology to accomplish his goals. The Battle of Liegnitz in 1241 demonstrated
this and influenced Mongolian tactics even after Khan died.
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