What is mangu?

Mangu Khan (Mongolian: Мөнх хаан, Mönkh Khaan; 1209 – 1259) was the fourth Khagan of the Mongol Empire, ruling from 1251 to 1259. He was the first Khagan to truly prioritize the governance and administration of the vast empire, focusing on consolidating power and establishing a more structured government.

Mangu was the eldest son of Tolui and Sorghaghtani Beki. He was a grandson of Genghis Khan. His reign saw significant campaigns, including the invasion of Southern Song China led by his brother Kublai Khan, and the campaigns in the Middle East led by his other brother, Hulagu Khan.

Key aspects of Mangu's reign include:

• Centralization of the Empire: Mangu sought to solidify Mongol control over conquered territories through establishing administrative centers and implementing policies to ensure the flow of resources to the capital. This can be referenced in: Centralization%20of%20the%20Empire
• Religious Tolerance: Mangu, like other early Mongol leaders, practiced religious tolerance. He patronized various religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam, and held debates between religious scholars. More information available here: Religious%20Tolerance
• Military Expansion: While Mangu focused on administration, his reign also involved significant military campaigns aimed at expanding the Mongol Empire. These campaigns were largely entrusted to his brothers. Specifics about these campaigns can be found in: Military%20Expansion
• Administration and Justice: He introduced a more formalized system of law and administration throughout the empire, aiming to ensure fairer treatment of subjects and more efficient tax collection. Details on this aspect can be found here: Administration%20and%20Justice

Mangu Khan's death in 1259 led to a succession crisis and ultimately contributed to the fragmentation of the Mongol Empire into separate khanates.