The Mongol Trial was a success; not only did my prosecuting group win two of the three acts of violence that the Mongols were charged with, but we as students were able to get information about the Mongols and have a more factually-based opinion. For the most part, it was a fun, interactive project. The research part was easy, but what was not as easy was playing the role of Pope Innocent IV very sufficiently. I feel that I was more successful in fulfilling this role, however. I just wish that I had more of an impact of accusing the Mongols guilty of terrorism and kidnapping, but I do believe I did what could be done.
I completely agree with the outcome of the trial. I never believed that the Mongols committed genocide, since that is the goal of most, if not all, armies: to kill the enemy and win the war. I do believe that the Mongols were in fact guilty of kidnapping and terrorism. The people of conquered lands were taken from their homes and families unwillingly and forced to go to the Mongol capital at Karakorum. Also, terrorism was greatly used by the Mongols. They ravaged entire cities if they showed signs of opposition. This cause widespread fear throughout Eurasia because of the utter destruction that took place all over the landmass. This led to my personal conclusion that the Mongols committed acts of terrorism and kidnapping, but not genocide.
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