David of Ashby facts for kids
David of Ashby was an English monk, known as a Dominican friar. He was active around the years 1260 to 1275. He played an important role in connecting with the powerful Mongol Empire during the 13th century.
Contents
Who Was David of Ashby?
David of Ashby was born in England. He became a Dominican friar, which is a type of monk who travels and preaches. In 1260, he was sent on a special mission from Acre, a city in the Holy Land. His task was to meet with Hulagu, a very important Mongol ruler.
His Time with the Mongols
David of Ashby spent about 15 years living among the Mongols. He lived in a region known today as Iran. He learned a lot about their way of life and their culture during this long stay. He finally returned from Iran in 1274.
An Important Journey to Europe
In 1274, David of Ashby joined a special group called an "embassy." This group was sent by another Mongol ruler named Abaqa. Their mission was to travel to Europe for a major meeting called the Second Council of Lyon.
The Mongol embassy arrived on July 5, 1274. David traveled with a clerk named Rychaldus and 14 important Mongol officials. During this important meeting, the leader of the Mongols was baptized, meaning he became a Christian.
David's Book About the Mongols
David of Ashby wrote a book called Les fais des Tatars. This means "The facts about the Tartars" (Tartars was another name for the Mongols). In his book, he described the culture of the Mongols, especially those living in Iran under Abaqa Khan.
He also wrote about their amazing military organization and discipline. Sadly, the only known copy of his book was lost in a library fire in Turin in 1904. Only a few notes and extracts from it still exist today.
See also
- Franco-Mongol alliance
