Duncan Royale Mongolian Asian Santa

In the early 1200’s under the leadership of Genghis Khan, the Mon go! herdsmen were forged into a war-like horde. They became fearful of losing their grazing land to the ever expanding Chinese. Genghis so inspired his followers that they became victors over many lands.

The Great Wall of China, built as a barrier to warring tribes, was no deterrent to the onslaught of the vast strength of the Mongols. Under the rule of Genghis Khan Mongolia extended from the Pacific Ocean to the Caspian Sea.

Even though they were warriors and nomads their year end celebration of Herdsmen’s Day was a day of feasting and celebrating. The men exhibited their skill in horsemanship and the women dressed in their best adding silver and trinkets to their headdresses. Gifts of trinkets and products of the time were exchanged within the family much like our exchanges today.

Orientals (those touched by the Mongols) may have been influenced by these year-end celebrations. One Chinese God, Tsai Sen Yeh appears at the end of the year and gives money gifts to the children. He carries the traditional sack on his back and is a favorite of the children as he makes his rounds. It is believed Marco Polo, a close friend of Genghis Khan, may have introduced Christian ideals and customs while he was living in China.