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Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World  By  cover art

Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World

By: Jack Weatherford
Narrated by: Jonathan Davis, Jack Weatherford
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Publisher's summary

The Mongol army led by Genghis Khan subjugated more lands and people in 25 years than the Romans did in 400. In nearly every country the Mongols conquered, they brought an unprecedented rise in cultural communication, expanded trade, and a blossoming of civilization.

Vastly more progressive than his European or Asian counterparts, Genghis Khan abolished torture, granted universal religious freedom, and smashed feudal systems of aristocratic privilege. From the story of his rise through the tribal culture to the explosion of civilization that the Mongol Empire unleashed, this brilliant work of revisionist history is nothing less than the epic story of how the modern world was made.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2005 Jack Weatherford (P)2010 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

"With appreciative descriptions of the sometimes tender tyrant, this chronicle supplies just enough personal and world history to satisfy any reader." ( Publishers Weekly)
"There is very little time for reading in my new job. But of the few books I've read, my favourite is Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World by Jack Weatherford. It's a fascinating book portraying Genghis Khan in a totally new light. It shows that he was a great secular leader, among other things." (Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India)
"Weatherford's admiration for Genghis and his firsthand knowledge of many of the sites important in Mongol history give this text an immediacy and a visual quality that are enhanced by Davis’s presentation. When the narrative begins to lag in its final hour or two as it moves farther from the twelfth century, Davis's crisp pace maintains the listener’s interest to the end. An informative and provocative work of popular history." ( AudioFile)

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The best biographies are ranked not only by the scale and skill of their writing, but also by the strength of their subjects. In the audiobook world, these selections are also judged for the quality of their narrative performances, making those that rise to the top all the more excellent. From lighthearted entertainment to inspirational origin stories, these titles represent the best biography audiobooks now ready for your listening pleasure.

Editor's Pick

Even if you don’t pick up this title, please say ‘JENG-iss.’
"As an anthropologist studying and teaching in Mongolia for decades, Jack Weatherford collected stories: the facts of Genghis Khan’s life (few, but significant), his legacy (huge), and the intimacy and specialness of Mongolian culture that changed and spread across the world under his aegis. Jonathan Davis’s stellar narration of every novelistic detail guarantees that this audio is the BEST. HISTORY. EVER."
Christina H., Audible Editor

What listeners say about Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World

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extremely interesting

What a great story of the Mongolian empire not just Genghis Khan. A very good audio book

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    5 out of 5 stars

Essential for a modern historian seeking an accurate account of world development.

An intriguing report of history through the centuries that has been unknown in the western world. No study of world history could be complete without this book. Excellent research has been performed and the quality of reporting unsurpassed to hold attention for the scholar and casual reader alike. I would most highly recommend this book.

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Perfect for enthusiasts

One of my favorites. It was full of surprises and it was easy to follow the narrative and discussion of tactics. This is great for enthusiasts of general world history.

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seems scholarly, mini stories imbeded in story

my most memorable moment was the mongols breaking off the siege but mysteriously leaving half of their baggage. In a few days the city defenders are out with loaded wagons gate open. The mongols swarm the defenders and take the gate.

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Global Impact

The later of the book beautifully expands on the Mongolian Empire's global impact. Great reminder to expand out own eurocentric elementary curriculum conditioning.

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Wonderful Book

I really learned a lot from listening to this audiobook about Genghis Khan. Such an interesting account of history so many in West know only a little about. I would recommend this to anyone interesting in history.

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So convenient

I am a school teacher and having this as part of my teaching - as I'm having students read the book- is so helpful. The reader does a fantastic job reading the book too!!!! Bonus.

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Very fascinating

I wasn’t sure I would like this, but found it fascinating & interesting, especially all the governing innovations for his kingdom that no other ruler was doing at the time. His method of warfare and integrating captured people with skills & knowledge into his kingdom was also innovative and interesting.

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Interesting and enlightening!

tremendous read if you enjoy world history. puts Mongol reign in perspective to world history.

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The Original

Like many I've always been curious of the mystery surrounding Genghis Khan, this book has proven that curiosity very well founded! An amazing man, an amazing vision, an amazing legacy.

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