Marco Polo remained in Mongol lands for two decades until the year 1295. Upon his return, Polo composed a detailed account of his travels. This document demonstrates the extent to which travel was improved by the Mongol Empire. However, before this topic can be thoroughly analyzed, one must consider the veracity of Polo’s text.
Problems with Polo's Account
Although considered one of the most valuable primary documents of its period, there is cause to doubt some aspects of Polo’s account. Notably, Polo himself was not present at all of the locations mentioned in his source. For instance, some details were taken from the prior journeys of his uncle and father. Furthermore, some places described in the account are not found along Polo’s probable route. Thus, it is likely that he did not personally visit such locations.
Additionally, Polo’s reasons for composing his account must be considered in analyzing this source. He most likely recorded his travels to achieve fame and fortune. Therefore, Polo emphasized those details that would have been most intriguing and shocking to European readers.
Collaborating Sources
Despite the potential flaws in Polo’s account, several details can be substantiated by other primary documents from this period. For example, Polo takes note of the funerary practices he observed in the Provincce of Tangut. According to his account, the deceased’s body was provided with food and kept by relatives for several months prior to burial. This description is similar to one given by a 9th century Mahomedan traveler when referring to Chinese funeral customs.
Additionally, Polo’s discussion of the Mongol’s semi-nomadic lifestyle includes a detailed account of their mobile dwellings. His description of these yurts and carts is virtually identical to that given by William of Rubruck, traveled to Mongol lands in the mid-13th century. Both men even note the same seemingly minute details, such as the placement of felt tents so that their doors opened to the south.
How Polo Traveled
During his more than twenty years abroad, Polo participated in a considerable amount of travel. This was facilitated by the existence of the Mongol Empire. The infrastructure the Mongols provided over a vast region of Eurasia greatly benefited the institution of travel. For example, Polo provides a detailed description of the Mongol yam system.
The yam was a series of posts placed every 25 to 30 miles along major roadways. At each yam, several hundred horses were ready to replace those wearied by travel. Additionally, the Khan ensured that several boats were available at major water crossings so that official couriers would not be delayed. The Mongols also marked and maintained major roads. Trees were planted at set distances along major routes. These not only helped mark distance, but provided much needed shade to travelers. Where trees could not be planted, stones or columns were used in their place.
Officials were also appointed to ensure roadways were properly maintained. Additionally, the commercial aspect of travel was improved by the Mongols’ standardized paper money. This currency could be redeemed anywhere within the Empire. Thus, merchants could sell their wares in one location and carry this easily transportable money to another region to purchase the goods they desired.
However, the Mongol state did not solve all the problems travelers encountered, and Polo notes difficulties associated with weather, warfare, illness, and geography. For example, he identifies several deserts where travelers could fine no provisions for extended periods.
Polo as a Source
Marco Polo’s account has long been utilized by scholars and is widely considered an invaluable primary source. Although some details of this text are questionable, much of his account appears to be based on fact. Furthermore, the existence of similar descriptions in other primary sources greatly bolsters Polo’s credibility. Thus, his account is of great value to historic study and provides considerable insight on travel within the Mongol Empire.
As evidenced by Polo’s account, the existence of this vast political state helped facilitate transportation and communication. Although the Mongols could not alleviate all difficulties, they greatly improved the infrastructure that supported medieval Eurasian travel.
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