How did the Mongol strategies differ from European ones?

The Mongol strategies were more mobile, flexible and relied heavily on psychological warfare, unlike the European ones.

The Mongols, originating from the harsh steppes of Central Asia, developed a unique style of warfare that was vastly different from the European strategies. Their strategies were primarily based on mobility, flexibility, and psychological warfare. The Mongols were renowned for their horse archery, which allowed them to strike their enemies from a distance and then retreat swiftly before a counterattack could be launched. This hit-and-run tactic, known as the 'feigned retreat', was a cornerstone of Mongol strategy and was often used to lure enemies into ambushes.

In contrast, European warfare during the same period was largely characterised by heavy infantry and knights in armour, fighting in close quarters. The Europeans relied on the strength and discipline of their foot soldiers and the shock value of their heavy cavalry. Their strategies were often more static and less flexible than those of the Mongols. They would typically form a solid line or a defensive square, and their success depended on the ability to hold this formation under enemy pressure.

The Mongols also made extensive use of psychological warfare. They would spread terror and confusion among their enemies through tactics such as false rumours, feigned retreats, and the use of captured enemies as human shields. They would often exaggerate their numbers and strength to intimidate their opponents. The Mongols also had a reputation for extreme brutality, which they used to their advantage to demoralise their enemies and induce them to surrender without a fight.

On the other hand, European strategies did not typically involve psychological warfare to the same extent. While they did use intimidation tactics, such as displaying their banners and sounding their horns, these were more to boost their own morale than to demoralise the enemy. European warfare was more focused on direct confrontation and the use of force.

In summary, the Mongol strategies were more mobile, flexible and relied heavily on psychological warfare, while the European strategies were more static, relied on the strength and discipline of their infantry and knights, and focused on direct confrontation.