History's Greatest Battles
The battles that made us -- a detailed, entertaining, and tangent-free program about history's greatest battles. In this program, we embark on a journey through the constancy of human conflict, where the fates of nations and the course of history have been decided on the battlefield. This program delves into our world-history's most significant and seminal battles, exploring not just the events themselves but their profound impact on the world timeline we live in today. Each episode is meticulously crafted by ardent and dedicated history fans with a passion for military history and an appreciation for the art of storytelling. Join us as we unravel the strategies, heroics, and consequences that have shaped civilizations and forged the destiny of entire continents.
History's Greatest Battles
The Battle of Hakata Bay, 1281 A.D. The Mongol Invasion of Japan
The obliteration of the Mongol fleets (by the "divine wind," the "kamikaze") ensured Japan's sovereignty, safeguarding the island nation from foreign conquest. However, this triumph over the external threat did not bring peace. Instead, it ignited a fierce internal power struggle within the military government, ultimately shifting the balance of power. The Bakufu, once mere protectors of the realm, solidified their dominance, overshadowing the emperor’s authority and laying the groundwork for military rule to take precedence over imperial governance.
Hakata Bay. August 1281.
Mongol Forces: ~ 140,000
Japanese Forces: Unknown quantity of Samurai and Local Fighters
Additional Reading and Research:
- Turnbull, Stephen. The Samurai: A Military History.
- Kwanten, Luc. Imperial Nomads.
- Sansom, George. A History of Japan.