Some Historians Argue That Mongol Empire Building Stimulated Local Economies

question 38

Essay

Some historians argue that Mongol empire building stimulated local economies and facilitated cultural exchange through the promotion of trade. Other historians, echoing the widespread hostility to Mongol rule that existed at the time, argue that Mongol domination retarded political and economic development in many areas. Which position do you think is correct? Provide examples from Russia and China as talking points.

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Definitions:

Bowed-out Production Possibility Frontier

A production possibility frontier that is concave to the origin, indicating increasing opportunity costs as production of one good is increased.

Guns

Firearms used for a range of purposes, including defense, hunting, sports, and as weapons in conflicts.

Value Judgments

Value judgments are assessments or opinions based on personal values, beliefs, or ethics, rather than on empirical evidence or objective criteria.

Economic Models

Economic models are simplified representations of complex economic processes, used to predict future economic activities and policy outcomes.