9 Little-Known Facts About Genghis ‘King’ Khan
The First Great Khan & Emperor of the Mongol Empire.
1. “Genghis” wasn’t his birth name.
The legend of the “Great Khan” of Mongols dates back to 1162 along the Onon River banks. He was given the name Temujin at birth, which translates to “blacksmith” or “of iron.” Temujin earned the title of “Genghis Khan” when he was declared the leader of the Mongols at a tribal assembly. The term “Khan” is a conventional title given to a ruler or superior; however, the origins of “Genghis” are unclear to historians. Many speculate it to mean ocean or rightful, but consensually it translates to “supreme leader.”
2. He had a rough childhood.
The young Khan did not just wake up to be the Mongolian Empire’s ruler. He used his acquired skills from his early ages to expand the tribe and unite his people into an empire. His father was poisoned by rival Tatars when he was only nine. After his father’s death, Temujin’s family faced many rough times that toughened him into a warrior. His tribe abandoned him, leaving his family to try and survive in the wild independently. It is also rumored that he murdered his half-brother in a quarrel over food.
