Environmental History as a Lens

The approach of examining history through an environmental perspective reveals the interconnectedness of ecological changes and human events. This method provides insights into how historical crises, such as the First World War, were not just the result of political maneuvers but were deeply influenced by environmental factors like resource availability. By exploring the influence of elements such as climate on empires, the discussion highlights that ecological circumstances often shape the course of human events. For instance, the material basis of the Mongol Empire was significantly linked to favorable grassland conditions that supported their horse-mounted armies.