Tea trade with the western world is generally recognized as starting with the European colonial powers in the late 1500's, but this is not exactly accurate. Prior to the western European trade and expansion, there was a great empire that surpassed even Rome in size and the diversity of countries conquered. The Mongol Empire started with the rise of Genghis Khan in 1206 CE and ended in 1370 CE after multiple civil disruptions and external pressures. While 164 years is not considered remarkable for an empire, the impact the Mongols had was remarkable. Oddly, the one thing that is often forgotten in history is the one item these ancient people took with them when their empire fell. Tea was an item of treasured by the Mongols.
