Kublai Khan

1215–1294 · Mongol (Mongolia/China) · Mongol Empire / Yuan Dynasty, Medieval Asia

Known for: Grandson of Genghis Khan who conquered China and founded the Yuan Dynasty—hosted Marco Polo

Kublai Khan completed his grandfather's work by conquering Song Dynasty China and establishing the Yuan Dynasty—the first foreign dynasty to rule all of China. He moved the capital to Dadu (modern Beijing) and presided over one of history's wealthiest empires.

He was far more cosmopolitan than his steppe ancestors—he patronized Chinese art and scholarship, promoted Buddhism, and welcomed foreigners (including Marco Polo, who served at his court for 17 years). He introduced paper money on a massive scale and built canals, roads, and granaries.

His attempted invasions of Japan (1274, 1281) failed spectacularly—the famous 'kamikaze' (divine wind) typhoons destroyed his fleets. He also failed to conquer Vietnam and Java. He became obese, depressed, and alcoholic in his later years, dying at 78.

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