Subutai

Subutai was one of the greatest generals of the Mongol Empire and served Genghis Khan and Ögedei across an extraordinary geographic range. He directed campaigns in northern China, Central Asia, Persia, the Caucasus, Rus’ and central Europe, often coordinating separate armies over vast distances. With Batu he planned the invasions that defeated major European forces in 1241.

He later returned to campaigns against the Song dynasty and died at an advanced age. Subutai was born in Burkhan Khaldun and died in Tuul River. Subutai is generally dated to 1175–1248.

In Cecelia Holland’s Until the Sun Falls, A Merkit by origin rather than a member of the ruling Mongol clans, he has survived by mastering the discipline, mobility and political instincts required by conquest. His military responsibilities under Batu Khan and Subutai are complicated by conflict within his household, particularly with a son determined to establish an independent reputation. In Conn Iggulden’s Empire of Silver, after the death of Genghis Khan, his sons and generals must decide whether the empire will remain united. Ögedei secures the succession and establishes a capital at Karakorum, while Subutai and Batu carry Mongol armies through the Rus principalities and into central Europe. Further fictional perspectives on Subutai can be found in Conn Iggulden’s Bones of the Hills, Neal Stephenson’s The Mongoliad: Book 1, Neal Stephenson’s The Mongoliad: Book 2, and Neal Stephenson’s The Mongoliad: Book 3. For broader historical treatment of Subutai, see John Man’s Genghis Khan.