Western Xia

History

The Tangut Empire, known as Western Xia, was a powerful Buddhist empire that ruled Northwest China from 1038 to 1227. Controlling the vital Hexi Corridor, it served as a major cultural and economic bridge on the Silk Road.

Legend has it that the Tangut script, one of the most complex in history, was created in a single massive effort by the visionary scholar Iri. The empire's fierce resistance against the Mongols eventually led to Genghis Khan's death during the final siege of their capital.