This course traces the emergence, expansion, consolidation, and fragmentation of the medieval empire of the Mongols through translated primary sources produced by those conquered by and in contact with the empire (Chinese, Islamic, European) and the conquerors (Mongolian). Topics include the life of Chinggis (Genghis) Khan, medieval Eurasian geopolitics and society, Mongol administration of China and Persia, military strategies and technology, the role of religion in imperial administration, cross-cultural encounter and exchange, and the legacy of the Mongols in the world.