Do you know what Japan’s epic defense against the Mongol Empire was? It was Japan’s brave samurai warriors and strong storms.
In the 13th century, Kublai Khan, he was the grandson of Genghis Khan, led the Mongols, one of the largest and most powerful empires in history at that time. Kublai Khan, who had already conquered many lands in Asia, thought he could conquer Japan too. Let’s dive into the world of the 13th century, where Japan repelled the mighty Mongol Empire.
Divine Winds in the Japanese language are called kamikaze. They are the typhoons that helped Japan to conquer two Mongol invasions in the 13th century. These invasions were led by Kublai Khan, the Mongol Emperor. These invasions are important moments in Japanese history and resemble the powerful combination of Mother Nature and the strength of samurai warriors that defeated the most powerful empires of that century.
The Concept of “Kamikaze” (Divine Wind)
The Mongol invasions of Japan are recorded in the pages of history not because of their military importance, but for the significant effect of the typhoons that seemed sent by the gods to safeguard Japan. This blessed protection sent by God was named “kamikaze”, meaning “divine wind”. It is a phrase that was continuously used by Japanese aviators during World War II in a contrasting scenario. The defeat of the Mongol Empire marked a crucial turning point for Japan.
It reinforced the nation’s faith in divine protection and also symbolized the onset of the Mongol Empire’s diminishing aspirations for expansion into Japan. Because of this history, the Mongols managed to continue expanding in various regions of Asia, but Japan remained mostly safe until the early 17th century.
The First Mongol Invasion (1274)
The leader of the Mongol Empire dreamed of enlarging his empire through Japan after conquering many lands in Asia. In 1274, he sailed a naval force of approximately 900 vessels, transporting 30,000 troops to attack Japan. The Mongolian army consisted of Mongols, Chinese, and Koreans; they arrived at the island of Tsushima, Japan, before sailing to Hakata Bay on Kyushu Island. Despite being fewer in number, the Japanese put up a strong defense.
Nevertheless, the Mongols were trained in military strategies, such as siege equipment and assaults, which put the Japanese defenders at a disadvantage. However, shortly before the Mongol army could achieve their triumph, a terrifying typhoon hit, causing destruction to the Mongol fleet. The storm devastated many of their ships and scattered the remaining soldiers. This retreat marked the initial setback of the Mongol invasions, and the arrival of the storm led the Japanese to view the typhoon as a sign of divine blessing.
The Second Mongol Invasion (1281)
After several years, Kublai Khan initiated a second invasion in 1281, this time with an even greater army, a fleet of about 4,000 vessels, and roughly 140,000 soldiers, again including Korean and Chinese forces. This invasion was conducted with greater awareness, and the Mongols initially established a strong presence on the Japanese coastline. However, the Japanese had prepared better defenses and organized their military more effectively. An intense battle took place; yet again, a typhoon, known as the “second kamikaze”, struck at a critical moment in the summer of 1281. The storm severely impacted a large portion of the Mongol fleet, significantly disrupting their invasion efforts. Due to the storm, the remaining Mongols retreated, resulting in the invasion’s failure.
Kamikaze, or divine wind, and the Mongols’ defeat have become vital elements of Japanese national identity. They represent the nation’s divine approval and also its strength. This echoes throughout subsequent eras of Japanese history.
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Writer,
Sumaiya Nusrat
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE