Genghis Khan: Military Hero

Essay by SakibiHabibiJunior High, 9th gradeA, February 2009

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Genghis Khan: Military HeroAlthough some people believe Genghis Khan was a ruthless butcher, he deserves credit as a military genius because he conquered massive amounts of territory thanks to his quick thinking and battle tactics. To the Mongolian's he is a much honored figure, a king and hero rather than a savage, a force of unity, strength and order. He was the man who ruled Mongolia in its greatest days of glory, and although he led an army that slaughtered masses of people in a genocide not seen again until the 20th century, he was known for being just and generous to his own people, and magnanimous in victory. Undeniably, he was one of histories greatest rulers and military leaders. Genghis Khan established the Mongol nation, conquered most of the known world, and rightfully earned the reputation as one of the great military leaders of all time. Although often called the "barbarian," Khan achieved his victories through brilliant organization and tactics rather than barbaric behavior.

Genghis Khan put an immense force of dedication in military formation and the loyalty of his soldiers which helped him conquer vast amounts of territory. Genghis Khan had "organized his military on a system of ten- ten men to a squad, ten quads to a company, ten companies to a regiment, and so on, up to Tumens ten thousand men." With this type of formation, the Mongols were well organized. The Mongols could attack effectively and together as a whole unit which helped out a lot in battles. He was able to conquer massive amounts of territory with is tactic. This command structure proved to be highly flexible and allowed the Mongol army to attack in a group, divide into somewhat smaller groups to encircle and lead enemies into an ambush, or divide into...