Marco Polo served under Kublai Khan, the fifth Khagan (Great Khan) of the Mongol Empire, for 17 years. Kublai Khan was the grandson of Genghis Khan and is known for his role in expanding the Mongol Empire, as well as for his efforts to promote trade and cultural exchange with the outside world.

During his time in the service of Kublai Khan, Marco Polo traveled extensively throughout Asia, visiting regions such as China, Mongolia, and Persia. He served as a diplomat and ambassador for the Khan, conducting important missions and establishing diplomatic relations with neighboring kingdoms and empires.

Marco Polo's travels and experiences in the Mongol Empire were documented in his famous book, "The Travels of Marco Polo," which provided Europeans with their first detailed account of the lands and peoples of Asia. His descriptions of the wealth, culture, and customs of the East had a significant impact on European perceptions of the region and inspired many future explorers and traders.

To learn more about Marco Polo's adventures in the Mongol Empire and his service under Kublai Khan, you can visit History.com for a comprehensive overview of his life and travels. Additionally, Britannica.com provides detailed information about Kublai Khan and his legacy as a ruler of the Mongol Empire.

Overall, Marco Polo's time serving under Kublai Khan was a formative period in his life and career, shaping his understanding of the world and influencing his contributions to European knowledge of Asia. His experiences in the Mongol Empire are a testament to the power of cultural exchange and diplomacy in shaping the course of history.

Sign Up