Genghis Khan: A Detailed Biography

Genghis Khan (c. 1162–1227), born Temüjin, was the founder of the Mongol Empire — the largest contiguous land empire in history. From an outcast child to “Universal Ruler”, he united the Mongol tribes and conquered more territory than any individual in history. Ruthless yet brilliant, he created a meritocratic army, postal system, and legal code that influenced Eurasia for centuries. This biography covers his harsh childhood, rise to power, conquests, reforms, and mysterious death, as documented by the Encyclopaedia Britannica, the National Geographic, and the History.com.

Early Life on the Steppes

Orphaned and Exiled

Born around 1162 near the Onon River, Temüjin was the son of Yesugei, a minor chieftain. At age 9 his father was poisoned by rivals; his family was abandoned by their tribe. Temüjin, his mother Hö’elün, and siblings survived by eating roots and rodents, as detailed by the Smithsonian Magazine.

Rise to Power

Alliance with Toghrul and Jamukha

Temüjin married Börte at 16 (arranged by his father). When she was kidnapped by the Merkits, he rescued her with help from childhood friend Jamukha and ally Toghrul of the Keraites. He later defeated both former allies.

Great Kurultai of 1206

After defeating all rivals, Temüjin was proclaimed Genghis Khan (“Universal Ruler”) at a great kurultai (assembly) on the Mongolian steppe in 1206. He reorganised tribes into a decimal military system and created the Yassa — his written law code, as documented by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Conquests

China, Central Asia, Persia

1211–1215: Conquered the Jin dynasty in northern China 1219–1221: Destroyed the Khwarazmian Empire in Central Asia (massacre of entire cities) His generals later reached Russia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, as chronicled by the BBC History.

Administration and Reforms

Genghis promoted literacy (adopted Uyghur script), religious tolerance, meritocracy (commoners could rise to generals), and the Yam — a vast postal relay system. He protected trade routes, making the Silk Road safer than ever, as preserved by the Library of Congress.

Personal Life

Genghis had many wives and concubines; his primary wife was Börte. He had at least six acknowledged children, including sons Jochi, Chagatai, Ögedei (successor), and Tolui. Genetic studies suggest 0.5% of the world’s male population (16 million) may descend from him, as reported by the National Geographic.

Death and Secret Burial

Genghis died in August 1227 during a campaign against the Western Xia — official cause: injuries from falling off a horse. His body was returned to Mongolia and buried in an unmarked grave on or near Burkhan Khaldun mountain. Legend says the funeral escort killed everyone they met and horses trampled the site to hide it, as documented by the History.com.

Death and Legacy

Genghis Khan’s Enduring Impact

The Mongol Empire at its peak (1279 under Kublai) covered 24 million km² — 16% of Earth’s land. His descendants ruled from Korea to Hungary. The Pax Mongolica enabled trade and cultural exchange across Eurasia. Modern Mongolia reveres him as the father of the nation; his portrait is on currency and vodka bottles, as celebrated by the Mongolian Tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions About Genghis Khan

Why Is Genghis Khan Famous?

For creating the largest contiguous empire in history.

How Many People Did Genghis Khan Kill?

20–40 million — up to 10% of the world’s population.

Where Was Genghis Khan Born?

Near the Onon River, Mongolia, c. 1162.

What Does “Genghis Khan” Mean?

“Universal Ruler” — title given in 1206.

Did Genghis Khan Invent Anything?

He adopted the Uyghur script and created the Yam postal system.

Was Genghis Khan Buried with Treasure?

His tomb is still undiscovered — legend says yes.

How Did Genghis Khan Die?

Fall from horse (official) or other causes, August 1227, aged ~65.