Ghenghis khan History Timeline and Biographies

1162

Birth of Temüjin

Genghis Khan, originally named Temüjin, was born into the Borjigin clan in the steppes of Mongolia. His early life was marked by hardship, including the abduction of his mother and the death of his father, which shaped his future ambitions and leadership qualities.

1186

Temüjin Becomes Khan of the Mongols

In 1186, Temüjin was elected as Khan of the Mongols by a council of tribal leaders. This marked the beginning of his rise to power and his efforts to unify the fragmented Mongolian tribes under his leadership.

1206

Proclamation as Genghis Khan

In 1206, Temüjin was proclaimed Genghis Khan, meaning "Universal Ruler," at a grand assembly known as the Kurultai. This event solidified his authority over the Mongol tribes and marked the official beginning of the Mongol Empire.

1207

Conquest of the Western Xia Dynasty

Genghis Khan launched a military campaign against the Western Xia Dynasty, successfully conquering it by 1209. This campaign demonstrated Genghis Khan's military prowess and strategic planning.

1211

Invasion of the Jin Dynasty

In 1211, Genghis Khan initiated a campaign against the Jin Dynasty in northern China. His forces employed innovative siege tactics and rapid mobility, leading to significant victories and the eventual fall of the Jin capital in 1215.

1215

Siege of Zhongdu (Beijing)

Genghis Khan's forces laid siege to Zhongdu, the capital of the Jin Dynasty. The successful capture of the city marked a significant expansion of Genghis Khan's empire into China.

1220

Conquest of the Khwarezmian Empire

Genghis Khan launched a devastating campaign against the Khwarezmian Empire after a diplomatic incident. His forces systematically destroyed cities and defeated the Khwarezmian army, leading to the empire's collapse by 1221.

1221

Establishment of the Silk Road Trade Network

Under Genghis Khan's rule, the Mongol Empire secured the Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between the East and West. This development significantly impacted global trade routes and economies.

1227

Death of Genghis Khan

Genghis Khan died in 1227 during a campaign against the Western Xia. His death marked the end of an era, but his empire continued to expand under his successors, leaving a lasting legacy on world history.

1235

Succession of Ögedei Khan

Following Genghis Khan's death, his son Ögedei was elected as the second Great Khan of the Mongol Empire. Ögedei continued his father's policies and expansion efforts, further solidifying Genghis Khan's legacy.

1241

Mongol Invasion of Europe Begins

The Mongol Empire, under Genghis Khan's successors, began its invasion of Europe, leading to significant battles, including the Battle of Mohi in Hungary. This expansion was a direct result of Genghis Khan's earlier conquests and strategies.

1258

Fall of Baghdad and the End of the Abbasid Caliphate

The Mongol forces, carrying on Genghis Khan's legacy, captured Baghdad in 1258, leading to the end of the Abbasid Caliphate. This event marked a significant shift in the balance of power in the Islamic world.

1260

The Great Khanate Splits into Four Khanates

After Genghis Khan's death, the Mongol Empire was divided into four major khanates: the Golden Horde, the Ilkhanate, the Chagatai Khanate, and the Yuan Dynasty. This division showcased the vastness of Genghis Khan's empire and its diverse cultures.

1368

End of the Yuan Dynasty and Legacy of Genghis Khan

The Yuan Dynasty, established by Kublai Khan, fell to the Ming Dynasty in 1368. Despite the fall, Genghis Khan's legacy continued to influence the region's politics, culture, and trade long after his death.

2024

Ongoing Influence of Genghis Khan in Modern Culture

Genghis Khan's legacy remains significant in contemporary culture, inspiring literature, films, and discussions about leadership and empire-building. His life and conquests continue to be studied for their impact on world history and geopolitics.