Marco Polo's Account on the Tartars

Overview

Marco Polo (1254-1324) was a notable medieval European traveler whose writings, particularly on China, influenced other explorers like Columbus.
The authenticity of Polo's accounts has been debated, with scholars like Frances Wood noting Persian rather than Chinese vocabulary.
Despite uncertainties, Polo's travel accounts were pivotal and continue to offer insights and enjoyment.

The Tartars originated from the northern regions of Jorza and Bargu.
Initially, they lived without fixed settlements and were subject to a northern prince known as Un-khan or Prester John.
They paid a tribute of livestock to Un-khan, who eventually became wary of their growing numbers.
Un-khan attempted to divide and weaken the Tartars, drafting them for various duties.
The Tartars eventually rebelled, unifying and migrating north to escape Un-khan's rule.

Around 1162, the Tartars elected Chingis-khan as their ruler.
Chingis-khan was a figure of integrity and valor, gaining widespread loyalty.
He united scattered Tartar factions, amassing a formidable force.
Under his leadership, the Tartars conquered multiple provinces and cities.
Chingis-khan engaged in warfare with Un-khan, ultimately defeating him and taking his daughter in marriage.
After expanding his territory for six years, Chingis-khan died from a wound sustained in battle.

Chingis-khan was succeeded by Cyhn-khan, Bathyn-khan, Esu-khan, Mongu-khan, and Kublai-khan.
Kublai-khan was notably powerful, expanding Tartar influence and territories further.
The title 'khan' is equivalent to 'emperor'.
It was customary to inter Tartar leaders in the Altai mountains, regardless of the distance from their place of death.
During funeral processions, those encountered were killed to serve the deceased in the afterlife.

The Tartars were nomadic, moving to warmer regions in winter and cooler areas in summer.
Their tents were portable and adaptable to seasonal migrations.
Women were primarily responsible for trade and household provisions, while men focused on hunting and warfare.
The Tartars had diverse diets, consuming various meats and preparing mare's milk into a wine-like drink called kemurs.
Tartar women were noted for their chastity and loyalty, and polygamous marriages were common.
The first wife held a privileged status, and marriage to a brother's widow was accepted.
Ceremonies accompanied marriages, emphasizing unity and familial responsibility.

The text is part of the Internet Medieval Source Book, a collection of public domain medieval texts.
The project is based at Fordham University but operates independently.
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