When the Ming overthrew the Yuan, how did they treat the defeated Mongols? When the Ming Dynasty overthrew the Yuan Dynasty in China, which was founded by the Mongols, they had to deal with the defeated Mongols and address various aspects of their governance and presence in China. The treatment of defeated Mongols during the transition from Yuan to Ming rule can be summarized as follows:

Expulsion and Resistance:

Many Mongols who had served the Yuan Dynasty were expelled from China or retreated to the northern steppes. Some Mongol groups resisted Ming rule and engaged in armed conflicts, resulting in ongoing tensions and skirmishes along the northern border.

Prominent Collaborators:

Some Mongol nobles and officials who had collaborated with the Yuan Dynasty were punished or marginalized, while others were integrated into the new Ming administration if they were willing to switch allegiance.

Discrimination and Segregation:

The Ming Dynasty imposed various discriminatory policies on the Mongol population. Mongols were often subjected to restrictions on movement, occupation, and marriage. They were also segregated into specific areas, such as the northern border regions, to limit their influence in the heartland of China.

Economic and Trade Restrictions:

The Ming Dynasty implemented trade restrictions and tariffs on northern border regions that had previously facilitated Mongol-Chinese trade under the Yuan Dynasty. This had economic repercussions for both the Ming and the Mongols.

Diplomacy and Treaties:

The Ming Dynasty sought to manage relations with the Mongol khanates on the northern border through diplomacy and negotiated treaties. This was a delicate balancing act aimed at maintaining peace and stability on the border.

Great Wall and Defensive Measures:

The Ming Dynasty initiated the construction and repair of the Great Wall of China, strengthening its northern defenses to protect against potential Mongol incursions.

Ming-Mongol Relations Over Time:

Over the centuries of Ming rule, Ming-Mongol relations evolved. There were periods of conflict, tension, and negotiation, but also times of cooperation, trade, and intermarriage. The relationship was complex and changed with different Ming emperors and Mongol leaders.

It’s important to note that the treatment of defeated Mongols was not uniform, as it varied depending on their roles, affiliations, and regional factors. Additionally, Ming policies toward the Mongols evolved over time, influenced by both internal and external factors.