The Mongols were a nomadic group from Central Asia who conquered a vast empire under Genghis Khan in the 13th century. They were skilled warriors and tacticians, using mobility and feigned retreats, as well as psychological warfare. Their main weapons were short swords, powerful composite bows, and siege weapons used to capture walled cities. While their conquests spread ideas and trade, they were also brutal fighters driven to expand their lands and wealth through violence when faced with resistance.