Author Description

In 1271, Kubilai, ruler of the Mongol Empire, proclaimed himself the first Emperor of the Yüan dynasty. Within a few years he was to gain control of the rest of China, in effect giving China unity and independence under an alien dynasty. His reign endured until 1368, when the native Ming dynasty came to power. Focusing on these two regimes, this text explores the history, organization and tactics of the Yüan and Ming armies from 1260-1520. Numerous illustrations and colour plates portray the weapons and uniforms of the Chinese troops in vivid detail.