In 3–5 sentences, analyze how overextension and fragmentation caused the collapse of the Mongol Empire.

1 answer

The Mongol Empire collapsed primarily due to overextension and fragmentation. Overextension occurred when the empire became too vast to be effectively governed by a central authority. As a result, the Mongols struggled to maintain control over the vast territories, with different regions becoming increasingly autonomous and rebellious. Fragmentation also played a crucial role as rival factions within the Mongol ruling family fought for power, leading to internal conflicts and eventual disintegration of the empire into smaller successor states. Additionally, the death of key leaders such as Genghis Khan and internal power struggles heightened the instability, contributing to the final collapse of the empire.