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The Life and Achievements of Genghis Khan Essay

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Genghis Khan’s birth was truly unique, the creation of a leader. Genghis Khan was born in the 1160s under the name Temujin, which translates to blacksmith. He was born about 200-mi. northeast of Ulaanbaatar near the Onon River, in Mongolia. Temujin’s birth resulted in stories saying that he grasped a clot of blood in his hand, this sign granted good fortune and was the token of a leader. He was the 3rd oldest son of his father and the oldest son of his mother. Temujin had 3 brothers and 1 sister, in addition to two half brothers. His family was nomads as many Mongol families were. His father, Yesukhei was a chieftain, therefore causing Temujin to be born into a noble lifestyle. However this privilege would allow him to gain power quickly …show more content…

Due to Temujin’s leadership and power he would deliver his family from this harsh poverty. The clot in his fist was the first sign showing he was born to be a strong leader. Next, Temujin’s shaman told him that he was chosen to be the master of the world. When he received this news there were about 30 Mongol groups who fought for power. Temujin’s higher social standing made it easier to gather help from and combine other Mongol tribes. He allied with other leaders, one of whom was Toghril, a leader of the Kereyits. This friendship was helpful because, when Temujin’s wife was captured Toghril and other friends helped rescue her. Next, Temujin amassed tribes by conquest and continued to build up his forces and land. He did not include the Tatars, who killed his father, in his merged tribal group. Instead Temujin slaughtered them, because of what they had done to his father, and only kept a few men, and forced the women and children into slavery. The Tatars were now vacant to the earth. Some friends of Temujin were not fond of his growing power but Temujin crushed all that opposed. At 40 years old Temujin was granted the title Genghis Khan. Historians say Genghis Khan did not deliberately set out to conquer the world. He did the attacks because he needed to feed his people and supply them with horses. Although some conquests he may have been out for revenge.
Returning to Mongolia after each conquest, Genghis Khan launched the start of building a capital at Kakakorum.

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