The Horde Trap. The Truth About the Nomads That Is Hidden

What do ancient steppe legends conceal and why have myths about the «countless hordes of nomads» taken such a firm root in historical science? Why is Russia still perceived by the West as part of Asia, rather than Europe? What ideas about the world guided the chroniclers of the Middle Ages? This book sheds light on little-known facts, explaining how geographical and historical errors of the past have turned into persistent stereotypes. The author offers the reader an exciting journey through the pages of the history of Inner Asia, revealing the true meaning of legends about nomadic peoples and analyzing their connection to world politics. Here are collected the most enduring misconceptions about the «steppe empires», Genghis Khan, and the «Tatar-Mongol yoke», which served not only as tools of myth-making but also of political influence. Recommended for historians, journalists, educators, and anyone interested in the history of Eurasia without stereotypes and clichés.