The Mongol Onslaught: When Ukraine Fell to the Horde (Video)
The Mongol Invasion of Ukraine in 1237 was a pivotal moment in Eastern European history. The arrival of the Mongol horde, which had recently conquered the mighty Islamic Khorasmian Empire, brought terror and destruction to the lands of the Kievan Rus. The principalities of the Rus had been in a state of fragmentation and rivalry and were unprepared to face the might of the Mongols. Led by commanders Subatai and Jebe and in the name of the deceased Genghis Khan, the Mongols scouted and waged war in uncharted lands.
A young prince named Danilo led a charge across the Caulker River, but was ultimately defeated by the Mongol horse archers. The invasion resulted in the fall of Kiev, the capital of the Kievan Rus, and the massacre of thousands. The Mongols went on to press into central Europe, scattering the Poles, Hungarians, Germans, and Knights Templar in the process. The Mongol conquest of Eastern Europe was not complete, however, and the princes of the Rus would continue to maintain alliances and feuds while keeping a watchful eye on their new conquerors.
- Triumph, Rebellion And The Ancient History Of Ukraine
- The Golden Horde and the Mongol Mission to Conquer Europe
Top image: Mongol invasion. Source: vitanovski / Adobe Stock.
