Genghis Khan 1162?–1227
Warrior and Founder of Mongol Empire
Genghis Khan was a man of humble birth who rose to become the ruler of a great empire. He was born in Mongolia. His name at birth was Temujin. His family fell on hard times after the death of his father. But Temujin showed courage and intelligence, and he grew up to be a warrior and strong leader.
Around 1200, Temujin set out to bring the Mongol people under his rule. The Mongols were nomads who lived in scattered groups. With an army of followers, Temujin destroyed the leaders of the nomadic groups. He took their people as soldiers and servants. In 1206, the Mongols proclaimed Temujin to be Genghis Khan, which means “Universal Ruler.”
Genghis Khan then set out to conquer the settled lands to the east and west. In 1211, he invaded China. In 1215, he began his conquest of the Muslim empire of Khwarezm. His armies spread destruction and terror as they went. By the time Genghis Khan died, his conquests stretched from Beijing to the Caspian Sea. Under the rule of his descendants, the empire he created would dominate the Eurasian continent.
Critical Thinking
What character traits would you use to describe Genghis Khan? Explain your answer.