catapult

(noun)

A device or weapon for throwing or launching large objects. Used by Genghis Khan during the Mongol invasion of the Khwarazmian Empire.

Related Terms

Examples of catapult in the following topics:

  • Expansion Throughout Central and Western Asia

    • During the invasion of Transoxania in 1219, along with the main Mongol force, Genghis Khan used a Chinese specialist catapult unit in battle, adding to the powerful tactics already in use by Mongol forces.
    • The Chinese may have used these same catapults to hurl gunpowder bombs.

  • Technological Advancements Under the Song

    • An illustration of a trebuchet catapult from the Wujing Zongyao manuscript of 1044.

  • The Mongols in Eastern Europe

    • The Mongols had acquired Chinese gunpowder, which they deployed in battle during the invasion of Europe to great success, in the form of bombs hurled via catapults.

  • The Southern Song Era

    • During these battles the Song navy employed swift paddle wheel driven naval vessels armed with trebuchet catapults aboard the decks that launched gunpowder bombs.