WHI-Chap18-Obj7
Why were the Mongols unable to hold onto to their empire?
The Mongols lost control of their empire because of economic decline and power struggles in government.
Fall of the Ilkhanate of Persia
In Persia soon after Kublai Khan died, excessive spending and exploitation of the working-class caused widespread financial trouble. In the 1290s the ilkhan introduced paper money into Persia to pay off the massive debts. The government ordered that the people must take paper money in exchange for their coins. The merchants refused to trade their coins and instead decieded to shut down their businesses. During this economic halt which greatly weakened the government, factions began struggling to take power. By 1335 the last ilkhan died without an heir ending the Ilkhanate of Persia.
Fall of the Yuan Dynasty
In China paper money also contributed to the decline of the Yuan Dynasty. The Mongol government did not back the paper money and merchants lost confidence in the currency causing massive inflation and economic decline. As in Persia factions fought over power in government. In 1320 following assassinations and civil war the Yuan Dynasty fell.
Paper Money from Yuan Dynasty
By: Tommy Cowell
Image From:http://www.bcps.org/offices/lis/models/chinahist/yuan.html
