Genghis Khan, born as Temüjin in 1162, founded the Mongol Empire in 1206.¹⁾

His birthplace is believed to be near the Onon River in Mongolia.²⁾

Genghis Khan's early life was marked by adversity, as his father was poisoned, and his family faced harsh conditions.³⁾

Temüjin's early leadership skills were evident when he successfully united various Mongol tribes under his rule.⁴⁾

He earned the title “Genghis Khan,” meaning “Universal Ruler,” after uniting the Mongols.⁵⁾

Genghis Khan was an innovative military strategist, utilizing psychological warfare and unconventional tactics.⁶⁾

The Mongol Empire, under Genghis Khan, became the largest contiguous empire in history, spanning Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.⁷⁾

He was known for his meritocratic approach, promoting individuals based on skill rather than noble birth.⁸⁾

Genghis Khan implemented a legal code known as the Yassa, which addressed various aspects of Mongol life, including military discipline and trade regulations.⁹⁾

He was a shrewd diplomat, often using alliances to strengthen his empire.¹⁰⁾

Genghis Khan's death in 1227 did not lead to a power vacuum as his successors, particularly his grandsons Kublai Khan and Hulagu Khan, continued expanding the empire.¹¹⁾

He is believed to have been buried in an unmarked grave, and the location remains a mystery to this day.¹²⁾

Genghis Khan was a progressive leader in terms of religious tolerance, allowing freedom of worship across his empire.¹³⁾

He promoted trade along the Silk Road, facilitating cultural exchange between East and West.¹⁴⁾

Genghis Khan's military campaigns resulted in the integration of various technologies and tactics from conquered regions into the Mongol military.¹⁵⁾

The Mongol postal system, known as the Yam, facilitated communication across the vast empire.¹⁶⁾

Genghis Khan's genealogy is the subject of myth and legend, with some claiming he was descended from a blue wolf and a doe.¹⁷⁾

He was injured multiple times in battle, including being shot in the neck with an arrow during one skirmish.¹⁸⁾

Genghis Khan was a visionary leader, with long-term goals that extended beyond military conquest, including the establishment of a sustainable empire.¹⁹⁾

The Mongol Empire contributed to the exchange of ideas, goods, and technologies between East and West during the Pax Mongolica.²⁰⁾

Genghis Khan's military campaigns had a profound impact on the demographics of Asia and Europe, with significant population shifts occurring.²¹⁾

Genghis Khan was known for his humility and pragmatism, often valuing practical solutions over ideological considerations.²²⁾

The Great Khan was a patron of the arts, supporting the development of Mongol literature, music, and visual arts.²³⁾

Genghis Khan was reportedly tolerant of different cultural practices within his empire, allowing conquered peoples to maintain their traditions.²⁴⁾

He established a census system to better understand and govern the diverse population of the Mongol Empire.²⁵⁾

The Mongol Empire's administrative structure featured regional governors, tax systems, and a centralized bureaucracy.²⁶⁾

Genghis Khan's military campaigns included successful sieges of heavily fortified cities, showcasing his strategic prowess.²⁷⁾

The Mongol leader's childhood friend, Jamukha, became his rival later in life, leading to a series of conflicts.²⁸⁾

Genghis Khan's four sons—Jochi, Chagatai, Ogodei, and Tolui—played crucial roles in the continuation and expansion of the empire.²⁹⁾

Genghis Khan's army was known for its mobility, utilizing skilled horse archers and effective cavalry tactics.³⁰⁾