The Mongols' efforts to win over the Papacy and the kings of Europe (646–715 AH / 1248–1316 AD)

Abstract

This study examines the Mongols’ diplomatic policy toward the Papacy and the kings of Europe during the period (646–715 AH / 1248–1316 CE), focusing on their attempts to win over the Christian powers against the Islamic world, particularly the Mamluks and the Abbasid Caliphate. The Mongols exploited the strained relations between Muslims and Christians, seeking to gain the support of Western Europe by feigning a willingness to convert to Christianity and spreading propaganda about the existence of a legendary Christian king in Central Asia (Prester John). The study traces the origins of these efforts, beginning with the initial contacts during the reigns of Möngke Khan and Hulegu, through the Ilkhanate period under Abaqa, Arghun, Ghazan, and Öljaitü, and concluding with the failure of the alliance project following the fall of Acre and the decline of Crusader zeal in Europe. The study adopts a historical-analytical approach based on Arab and foreign sources and references to trace diplomatic embassies and correspondence and to interpret their motives and contexts.

This study consists of an introduction and three main sections, as follows: First: The roots and early attempts of the Mongols to win over the Papacy and the monarchs of Europe; Second: The peak of these attempts and the intensive correspondence between the Mongols, the Papacy, and the monarchs of Europe; and Third: The reasons for the Mongols' failure to win over and form an alliance with the Papacy and the monarchs of Europe. These sections are followed by a conclusion summarizing the most significant findings of the research.

In conclusion, we ask God Almighty, Lord of the Worlds, to make this humble effort purely for His sake, in service to knowledge, and we ask Him for guidance, success, and steadfastness in all matters.