Chinggis Khan

Introduction

Jan 1, 1162

Chinggis Khan, commonly referred to as ‘Genghis Khan’ by westerners, was a superior warrior and an exceptional leader. As the ruler of the Mongol Empire, Chinggis Khan was infamous for his ruthless ways in the quest to unite individual nomadic tribes in Northern and Central Asia. After his death, the Mongol Empire became the largest contiguous empire in history, spanning between 11 and 12 million square miles. (photo source: http://www.mining.com/genghis-khan-equestrian-statue/)

Birth of Temujin

Nov 14, 1162

Chinggis Khan was born in 1162 as Temujin in Deluun, Boldog in northern Mongolia, near Siberia. Temujin grew up in poverty and violence and was a member of the Borjigin tribe. (Photo Source: http://www.mongoliatouragency.com/index.php?p=articles&action=displayarticle&id=47)

Death of Temujin’s Father

Jan 1, 1171

At the tender age of nine, his father, Yesugei Baatar, was poisoned by an enemy tribe, the Tartars. Soon after the death of his father, Temujin was appointed the chieftain of his tribe. Many were outraged by the idea of being lead by a young boy so his tribe abandoned him and his family. (Photo Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yesugei)

Death of Temujin’s Brother

Jan 1, 1172

Young Temujin killed his older, half- brother, Behter, after quarreling during a hunt. This reaffirmed his position as the head of his family and began his reputation of a gruesome warrior. (Photo Source: https://www.google.com/ )

Marriage to Borte

Jan 1, 1178

At 16- years old Temujin married Borte and solidified the relationship between his tribe and the Konkirat tribe. Borte was kidnapped by the Merikat tribe which infuriated Temujin and triggered his vengeance. With the help of his father’s former generals, Temujin was accompanied by armed men to rescue his wife. She gave birth to his first son, Jochi. Together they had four sons and many daughters. Temujin would have numerous wives and children over the course of his life.
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His Ascent to Power: “Universal Ruler”

Jan 1, 1204

With the help of Jamugha, a childhood friend and influential ally, most of the nomadic tribes were united. Temujin was betrayed by his own generals, Jamugha, and other enlisted leaders. This led to the successful defeat of the Tartars, the Merikats, the Kereyids, Jamugha’s clans, etc. The Mongol Empire was approximately the size of modern day Mongolia. Temujin took the title of ‘Chinggis Khan’ which translates to “Universal Ruler.”
(https://www.pinterest.com/pcareless/mongolian-empire/)

Creation of Mongol Script

Dec 1, 1204

Under Chinggis Khan’s reign, the first official written language of Mongols was developed, which was based on the Uyghur script. Modern day Mongolia uses the Cyrillic alphabet. With the creation of the Mongol Script, the first legal code was developed called the Jasagh. The Jasagh consisted of general laws as well as moral decree and punishments. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolian_script

Religious Tolerance

Nov 1, 1206

Chinggis Khan believed in religious freedom and was an animist himself; his people were Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, etc. He provided tax relief to religious institutions throughout his empire. Chinggis Khan was intrigued by Daoism due to its assurance of eternal life. Daoist sage, Changchun, accompanied the emperor on many expeditions and kept written records his experiences. This would prove as one of the main primary sources historians would use to learn about the Mongols and Chinggis Khan.

Chinggis Khan Establishes His Empire

Jan 1, 1210

Military structure was established to maintain and govern his empire. Hierarchies were installed and the Mongol government became the most progressive government up to this point so far in central Asia. Inherited aristocratic titles were eliminated to avoid civil warfare. www.history.stackexchange.com

The Beginning of Chinggis Khan’s Campaign

Jan 1, 1210

Young men took on the responsibility of being prepared for warfare at all times. The Khan’s horde would become the most disciplined, most forceful, most respected, and most feared army. They were exceptionally skilled horsemen and archers. It is said that Mongol bowmen hit targets better than modern day riflemen. (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/591167888556085604/)

Expansion of Power

Jan 1, 1220

The ferocious leader wanted to rule the world. His conquests and invasions of the Zhongdu Dynasty, Khwarizm Empire, Jin Dynasty multiplied Mongol territory. Eastern Europe, Kievan Rus, and the Middle East were conquered under brilliant military tactics. Sophisticated signalling systems and the incorporation of advanced technology were adapted from conquered territories. The brutal horde was organized by a strict decimal system that maximized efficiency and was no match for enemies.

Death of Chinggis Khan

Nov 28, 1227

During a second war against Xi Xia, Chinggis Khan died at age 65. The empire was divided amongst is four sons. Ogodei was his successor and was given the Great Khanate. The oldest, Jochi, died before him so his son, Batu, was assigned to rule Russia and Eastern Europe. Chagatai was to rule the Near and Middle East, and Tolui received the Mongol homeland. http://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-mongolia-ulaanbaatar-sukhbaatar-square-huge-statue-of-chinggis-khan-15426348.html

Silk Roads

Nov 28, 1270

Chinggis Khan recognized the economic importance of commerce. The first international postal service and network of trade was made possible by unifying conquered territory under a cohesive political system. It merged customs, trade, technology, and communication between Asia, Europe, the West, and the Middle East. The future expeditions of Marco Polo further solidify the belief that Mongol invasions eventually led to the "Age of Exploration" in 15th century Europe.

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Decline of the Mongol Empire

Jan 1, 1294

Under the Khan's reign, millions died and the world's demographics were shifted drastically due to the conquests. Chinggis Khan's grandson, Kublai Khan, was able to unite China after over four centuries of separation. He founded the Yuan Dynasty and was able to rule over China. Greed was a major contribution to the collapse of the Mongol Empire as Kublai Khan tried to seize control of Southeast Asia and Japan among other factors.
http://www.biography.com/people/kublai-khan-9369657