Mongol Invasion of Iran: Destructions and Economic and Cultural Consequences

Abstract

Mongol invasion of Iran in the thirteenth century AD was one of the most disastrous incidents in the history of this land with deep and extensive effects on the economic and cultural structures of the country. The present study dealt with the investigation of the destruction due to the Mongol invasion and its consequences for the Iranian economy and culture. Analysis of the historical sources indicates that the Mongol invasion led to the widespread destruction of the infrastructure, a drastic drop in population, the annihilation of the scientific and cultural centers, and serious disruptions in trade and agriculture. Finally, the present study has evaluated the importance of reconstruction and revival of the Iranian culture and economy after this period and showed how the Iranian society managed to overcome this huge crisis.

Keywords: Mongol invasion, economic destruction, cultural destruction, Iran, 13^th century AD.