Description
Book SynopsisThe empire of the Qara Khitai, one of the least known dynasties in the history of Central Asia, existed for nearly a century before it was conquered by the Mongols in 1218. Michal Biran considers its political, institutional and cultural histories.
Trade ReviewReview of the hardback: 'Though the Qara Khitai or Western Liao have attracted a certain amount of research over the years, it is a great pleasure to welcome the first monograph in English devoted entirely to their history and culture. … impressive … this volume is surely bound to remain a key work on the Western Liao for many years to come. … a major step forward in a number of ways, and will undoubtedly be recognized as such in the years to come.' Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies
Review of the hardback: '… an important and lasting contribution to our knowledge of the Mongol empire, and deserves a place in every Mongolist's and medievalist's library. After reading this book, both specialists and non-specialists will come to a greater and sharper appreciation of the place of the history of currency on the broad canvas of the Mongol conquest. Both Brian's and Kolbas's books are a fine testimony to the vitality and maturity of Inner Asian studies.' The Journal of JRAS
'This book on the Qara-Khitai, or Western Liao, is a major work that fills a gap in our knowledge of this important Central Asian dynasty.' Central Eurasian Reader
Table of ContentsPart I. Political History: 1. From Liao to Western Liao: Yelü Dashi and the establishment of the Qara Khitai Empire; 2. The quiet period: the reign of Yilie and the Empresses; 3. The fall: between the Khwarazm Shah and the Mongols. Epilogue: what became of the Qara Khitai?; Part II. Aspects of Cultural and Institutional History: 4. China; 5. Nomads; 6. Islam.
