Genghis Khan was the founder of the Mongol Empire, and he was known for his military prowess and governing wisdom. His military strategy and tactics have left a lasting impact on history. One of his tricks was his unique food security strategy, which ensured that the Mongol cavalry never starved during the Long March. However, when the Japanese army tried to imitate this tactic, it led to disastrous consequences, with a famine that left thousands of soldiers starving to death
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Genghis Khan's trick stemmed from his deep knowledge of the vast steppe region of Mongolia. During the Mongol Long March, Genghis Khan's army had to move constantly, crossing the vast and barren steppe landscape. In order to ensure that the iron cavalry had an adequate supply of food during the march, Genghis Khan employed a tactic known as "forage stockpiles".
The core idea of this strategy was to stock up on enough forage before the battle, which was gradually released during the march to provide a constant supply of food for the horses. Genghis Khan's army no longer relied on fixed food supply lines, but relied on the vast resources of the steppe, achieving the feat of marching for long periods of time on the steppe without starving.
This strategy provided the Mongol army with great flexibility and persistence
Jiuli, which allows it to quickly maneuver in the vast steppe area, chase the enemy, occupy the land, and gain a strategic advantage. Genghis Khan's strategy of stockpiling forage not only ensured an adequate supply of food for the army, but also reduced the pressure on the local population and avoided a large-scale famine caused by the passing of the army.
However, when the Japanese army tried to imitate this strategy of Genghis Khan during World War II, it had very different consequences. The Japanese army tried to use a similar "mobile granary" strategy in China, Burma, etc., but due to the lack of understanding of factors such as the geographical environment, the quality of forage and the demand for military horses, as well as the lack of understanding of the entire system
Poor management eventually led to a severe famine problem. It is estimated that 50,000 Japanese soldiers died of starvation during the march.
This comparative case highlights the crucial role of geographical, cultural, and environmental factors in the implementation of military strategy. Genghis Khan's success in using this strategy was due not only to his deep knowledge of the Mongolian steppe region, but also to his effective management and flexible use of the army. And the Japanese army, lacking the necessary knowledge and management skills, tried to replicate this strategy, which led to serious consequences.
In general, Genghis Khan's strategy of "forage stockpiles" showed that he was in the army
Exceptional intelligence and insight into the local environment. However, this strategy is not suitable for all contexts, and needs to be precisely adjusted according to various factors such as geography and cultural background. This historical story reminds us that a deep understanding and respect for the local environment and culture, as well as scientific and effective management and execution, are key to ensuring the success of a military strategy when developing and implementing it.