The Mongol Conquests were a series of military campaigns initiated by the Mongol Empire in the 13th century. Led by Genghis Khan, the Mongols aimed to expand their territory across Asia and into Europe. Their highly mobile cavalry and innovative tactics allowed them to defeat larger armies and capture vast regions, including parts of China, Persia, and Russia. The conquests resulted in the establishment of one of the largest contiguous empires in history. The Mongols implemented a system of governance that promoted trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. Despite their reputation for brutality, the conquests also facilitated communication and interaction between diverse cultures.