Genghis Khan and Maneuver Warfare

摘要

Genghis Khan was one of the most feared and admired leaders of his time. He created a Mongol military might that was superior to any other he faced. The Mongols, under the leadership of Genghis Khan and his successors, overran most of Asia and Eastern Europe, and defeated virtually every army thrown against them. His armies were so well trained and led that they were incomparably superior to their opponents in China, Russia, Persia, and Eastern Europe. Genghis Khan developed a military system that focused on rapid, decisive maneuver, utilizing the skill and endurance of the Mongol horsemen. His principles of operational maneuver, command and control, deception, and precise battlefield tactics were substantially superior to those of his enemies. His campaigns were brilliant, and showcased his military genius and established standards for maneuver warfare, brutality, and human endurance never before seen. No other army since then has achieved the remarkable results that Genghis Khan and his armies did. This study identifies and analyzes the Mongol army's organization and training, its tactics and strategy, and its brilliant execution of maneuver warfare during its campaign in Eastern Europe. The superior leadership, discipline, and mobility of the Mongol Army offer several valuable lessons on maneuver warfare from the 12th and 13th centuries.