The Mongols Created the World's First International Postal System

The Mongol Empire's 'Yam' (or 'Örtöö') was the world's first transcontinental postal system, covering over 6 million square miles from Korea to Eastern Europe. Established in the 13th century, it featured relay stations every 25-30 miles with fresh horses and riders. Messages could travel up to 200 miles per day, faster than any previous communication system. The Yam used a sophisticated passport system called 'paiza' - bronze, silver, or gold tablets that granted different levels of access and supplies. This network facilitated trade along the Silk Road, enabled efficient governance of the vast empire, and allowed for rapid military communication. The system was so advanced that it inspired later postal services in China, Persia, and Europe. Marco Polo used this system during his travels, praising its efficiency.