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Let’s learn about surprising facts about this talented but notoriously brutal Mongol Khan.
Genghis Khan’s life contains many hidden corners that remain mysteries – (Photo: Internet).
Genghis Khan conquered nearly 31 million square kilometers of territory in his lifetime. On his journey of conquest, he cut a brutal path through Asia and Europe, causing tens of millions of deaths. He united tribes and brought peace and stability along more than 5,000 miles of trade routes, opening up the development of trade, tourism, cultural and religious exchanges between the East and the West.
1. Origin of Genghis Khan’s name
He was named Temujin, after a very brave leader of a Tatar tribe who was defeated by his father.
Genghis Khan was born around 1162 and died in 1227, a member of the Borjigin clan and the eldest son of Yesugai, a leader of the Khitan tribe.
In 1206 Temujin successfully united the divided Mongol tribes and at the conference (council of Mongol leaders) he was crowned Genghis Khan (in Mongolian, king of the world).
The term Khan is a traditional title for “leader” or “ruler.” The origin of the name “Genghis” is unclear to historians. It may mean “ocean” or “righteous.” In the context of the character, it is often translated as “supreme/universal ruler.”
2. A violent childhood
Temujin’s childhood was extremely difficult. His father was poisoned by rival Tatar men when he was nine. He became the leader of the tribe in opposition due to disagreements over power and economic interests. In the following years, he and his family lived a poor nomadic life.
In 1182, he was captured by his former tribesmen in a raid and imprisoned with a collar around his neck. He later escaped with the help of sympathetic jailers.
When he was 16 years old, Temujin married Borte of the Hongjila tribe.
In 1206 Temujin successfully united the divided Mongol tribes and at the conference (council of Mongol leaders) he was crowned Genghis Khan (in Mongolian, king of the world).
3. There are no clear records of Genghis Khan’s appearance.
Although Genghis Khan was a very influential figure, very little is known about his private life and even his appearance.
A painting of Genghis Khan. (Photo: Biography).
No portraits or sculptures of Genghis Khan from that period survive, so no one knows much about his appearance. Most accounts describe him as a tall, strong man with long hair and a thick mustache.
However, according to the 14th-century Persian historian Rashid al-Din, Genghis Khan had red hair and blue eyes. Al-Din’s account may be unreliable since he never met the Great Khan in person, but these characteristics were already mentioned in Mongol circles.
4. Some of his most trusted generals were former enemies.
Genghis Khan was very good at using talented people. He often promoted military commanders based on their talent and experience rather than on their class, background, or previous loyalties.
In 1201, during a battle with the rival Taijut tribe, Genghis nearly died after his warhorse was shot from behind by an arrow. After the battle, he spoke to the Taijut prisoners and asked them to tell him who had shot the arrow, and one prisoner bravely stood up and admitted that he was the archer. In recognition of the archer’s courage, Genghis appointed him as a commander in his army. Genghis later gave him the nickname “Jebe” (arrow) to commemorate their first meeting on the battlefield.
Along with the famous general Subutai, Jebe later became one of the greatest battle commanders of the Mongols in their conquest of Asia and Europe.
5. Treat the root cause
Genghis Khan often gave other kingdoms the chance to submit to the Mongol Empire peacefully. But he did not hesitate to use the sword to mercilessly suppress those who opposed him.
The ancient Mongol army was famous for its archery and horse riding skills. (Photo: io9).
Genghis Khan proposed a valuable trade agreement to the Khwarezmid king regarding the exchange of goods along the Silk Road. He sent many jewels and beautiful women to the Khwarezm Empire as a token of his goodwill. They flatly refused by killing the messenger and all the soldiers accompanying the convoy.