Battle of Ngasaunggyan--1277--

AI Overview The Battle of Ngasaunggyan (1277) was a pivotal conflict between the Mongol-led Yuan dynasty of China and the Pagan Kingdom of Burma (present-day Myanmar).

Key Details of the Battle:

Context: The conflict arose as part of the Mongol invasions of Burma under Kublai Khan, following a dispute over tribute and the submission of border states.

Combatants: The Yuan army, which included Mongol, local Achan, and Ginchi troops, was commanded by Qutuq (Khudu). The Burmese army was led by Narathihapate, the King of Pagan, who used a vanguard of war elephants with archer towers.

The Fighting: Initially, the war elephants caused panic among the Mongol horses. The Mongol commander ordered his troops to dismount, fight on foot, and use concentrated arrow fire against the elephants.

Outcome: The wounded elephants stampeded, destroying their own lines. The Yuan army secured a victory, and the battle was famously recorded by Marco Polo.

Aftermath: Although the Mongols won this battle, they initially withdrew due to the heat and casualties. However, the battle marked the beginning of the end for the Pagan Empire, which was later reduced to a vassal state.