Did Mongols use infantry?

While the Mongols relied on cavalry to win many field battles they did use infantry. Cavalry are powerful troops, but they are terrible at taking ground and holding it. This is because in a stand-up melee infantry will always win assuming the Cav remain where they are.

Why were the Mongols successful at conquering?

The Mongols conquered vast swathes of Asia in the 13th and 14th century CE thanks to their fast light cavalry and excellent bowmen, but another significant contribution to their success was the adoption of their enemies’ tactics and technology that allowed them to defeat established military powers in China, Persia.

What tactics did the Mongols use in battle?

A commonly used tactic was the use of what was called the “kharash”. During a siege the Mongols would gather prisoners captured in previous battles, and would drive them forward in sieges and battles. These “shields” would often take the brunt of enemy arrows and crossbow bolts, thus leaving the Mongol warriors safer.

How did the Mongol light cavalry compare to modern day Knights?

Mongol light cavalry were extremely light troops compared to contemporary standards, allowing them to execute tactics and maneuvers that would have been impractical for a heavier enemy (such as European knights).

Did the Mongols suffer any losses in the Battle of Mohi?

They certainly suffered heavy defeats, but they also inflicted some heavy casualties in a few of the battles. At Mohi, for instance, the Mongols sustained significant casualties, and at Tursko the Poles won the initial battle before spreading out to loot the Mongol camp.

Why did the Mongols have a flexible command structure?

This command structure was highly flexible and allowed the Mongol army to attack en masse, divide into smaller groups to encircle their enemies and either lead them into an ambush or divide into small groups of roughly 10 to mop up a fleeing and broken army.