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What role did women play in Mongol society and warfare?

Clive Mollon

In Mongol society, women played an important role in both their daily lives and in times of war. Although men were seen as the main fighters, women also joined the army and were skilled at horse riding, archery, and sword fighting.

Many women also managed their households and businesses while their husbands were away at war. They were responsible for taking care of their children and making sure their families had food and other resources.

One famous example of a Mongol warrior woman is Khutulun, the daughter of a powerful Mongol leader. She was known for her strength and wrestling abilities and would only marry a man who could beat her in a wrestling match.

Another famous Mongol woman was Sorkhaqtani, the wife of Genghis Khan's son Tolui. After her husband died, she became the advisor to her son and helped him rule the empire. Sorkhaqtani was respected by many and even had a city named after her in China.

In Mongol society, women were not seen as inferior to men. They were valued for their skills and contributions to their families and communities. While men were often the ones to lead armies into battle, women played an important role in supporting them and protecting their homes.

Overall, women played a crucial role in Mongol society and were respected for their abilities and contributions. They proved that they were just as capable as men in both everyday life and in times of war.