Mongolian history is marked by the rise of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century, founded by Genghis Khan. This vast empire became the largest contiguous land empire in history, stretching from Eastern Europe to Asia, facilitating trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. After the empire's fragmentation, Mongolia experienced periods of foreign rule, including the Yuan Dynasty established by the Mongols in China. In the early 20th century, Mongolia declared independence from China, leading to the establishment of the Mongolian People's Republic in 1924, which lasted until the democratic revolution in 1990.