In this interview, Jack Wilson, historian of the Mongol Empire and PhD candidate at Central European University discusses his current research into the Mongol invasions of Hungary in the thirteenth century.

Focussing on the lesser known Mongol invasion of Hungary in the 1280s, and viewing this from the perspective of the Mongols, Jack’s research considers the likely reasons for the invasion.  His analysis shows that the Mongol motivations were closely linked to internal power struggles  and dynastic conflicts within the Golden Horde, and changing climatic conditions in their home steppe-land.  Jack’s analysis also implies that the invasion was not for conquest, but for loot and slaves, and to enhance the reputation a leading contender within their internal power struggles.  Jack also demonstrates how the Mongolian elite viewed the world and the place of themselves and their vast empire within it.

This podcast is part of a series of interviews covering central Europe in the medieval period for MECERN and CEU Medieval Studies.