The Mongol Empire fell primarily due to a combination of internal disputes over succession, the fragmentation of the empire into autonomous khanates, economic difficulties, military defeats, and external pressures. After the death of Genghis Khan in 1227, the empire was divided among his heirs into four major regions, which gradually became independent and competitive rather than cooperative. Succession struggles and family power conflicts weakened central authority. Additionally, economic strain through heavy taxation and mismanagement, compounded by widespread disasters such as the Black Death, devastated populations and disrupted trade networks. Military failures, like unsuccessful invasions of Japan and defeats by resilient states such as the Mamluks and the rising Ming Dynasty in China, further marked the decline. By 1368, the Yuan Dynasty in China was overthrown by the Ming, ending Mongol rule there. Other khanates also devolved into internal fighting and weakened defenses, leading to the empire's overall collapse by the late 14th century. Cultural divisions and reliance on local rulers alienated subject populations, causing rebellions and instability. Environmental degradation, such as overgrazing, reduced agricultural productivity, worsening economic conditions and fueling unrest. The fragmentation and infighting within and between khanates led to the dissolution of the Mongol Empire's vast and unified control.