Who Were the Mongols? – A Brief Overview

The Mongols are an East Asian ethnic group mainly living in Mongolia and China’s Inner Mongolia region. They are part of the broader Mongolic peoples, including groups like the Buryats and Oirats, and share a common language, Mongolian.

Historical Background:

• Originated from the Eurasian steppes, north of China.

• Rose to power under Genghis Khan in the 13th century, creating the largest land empire in history.

• The empire later fragmented into several successor states.

• Today, Mongol descendants live in Mongolia, China, Russia, and other regions through migration and diaspora.

• In China, Mongols are officially recognized as one of the 56 ethnic groups.

Cultural Identity:

• Strong nomadic traditions, with skills in horsemanship, wrestling, and craftsmanship (felt-making, metalwork).

• Religion includes Tibetan Buddhism and Mongolian shamanism (Tengrism), with minorities following Christianity and Islam.

• The Naadam Festival celebrates Mongolian culture through sports and ceremonies.

• Traditional homes, called gers, are portable tents suited for nomadic life.

• Mongolian language is widely spoken, with regional dialects.

Key Points:

• The Mongols have a rich history marked by empire-building, nomadism, and cultural pride.

• Today, they maintain a strong identity across Mongolia, China, and Russia, preserving their language, customs, and festivals.