Battle of Mohi (Sajó River)
1241 · Mohi, Hungary (on the Sajo River) · World · Medieval
Subutai made a flanking river crossing for a pincer attack on the Hungarian camp; the Mongols deliberately left a gap to invite flight, then pursued and annihilated the fugitives.
Belligerents
Mongol Empire
- Commanders
- Batu, Subutai
- Strength
- Main force, about 25,000-40,000
Kingdom of Hungary
- Commanders
- Béla IV
- Strength
- Hungarian army, about 25,000-60,000
Background
The migration of the Kipchaks into Hungary caused unrest there, and Batu's main army crossed the Carpathians to bear down on the Hungarian capital.
Course of the battle
- Seize the bridgeThe Mongols assaulted the stone bridge over the Sajó River to pin down the Hungarian army.
- Flanking maneuverSubutai led troops across secretly downstream to envelop the rear of the Hungarian camp.
- Pursue and annihilateLeaving a gap for escape, they lured the Hungarians into a headlong flight and cut them down almost to a man along the way.
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 1241 |
|---|---|
| Place | Mohi, Hungary (on the Sajo River) |
| Result | Subutai made a flanking river crossing for a pincer attack on the Hungarian camp; the Mongols deliberately left a gap to invite flight, then pursued and annihilated the fugitives. |
| Winner | Mongol Empire |
| Casualties | The Hungarian army was almost entirely destroyed, and Béla IV barely escaped with his life. |
| Territorial change | Hungary was ravaged for a year, and the Mongols withdrew east only because of Ögedei's death. |
Impact
One of the bloodiest Mongol battles in Eastern Europe, showcasing Subutai's encirclement tactics.
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