10.5.2
The creation of a khan
By his twenties, Temujin had built alliances with other Mongol clans and built a reputation as a ferocious warrior. He became a tribal chief in 1189 and was elected as Genghis Khan, ‘the universal ruler’, in 1206. To strengthen the bonds between the tribes, he used three ties: • Quda — tie of marriage. He married off his daughters to rival tribes to create alliances. • Anda — tie of sworn brotherhood. He exchanged valuables to form bonds stronger than family ties. • Nökör — tie of friendship. Followers promised to obey and defend their leader.
SOURCE2 When a new camp was established, the khan’s tent was the first to be erected. In this image, created in the fourteenth century, the khan is surrounded by his court officials. In the trees outside, the yak tails hang as a symbol of the presence of the khan.
Genghis Khan commanded loyalty and was willing to take criticism from others, including his mother, who became one of his advisers. He was known for his impressive physical strength, endurance and skill in archery and horseback riding, which helped him gain the respect of his followers. Under his leadership, the Mongol tribes united through strategic alliances and military conquests. His first military victory as ruler was against the Tanguts of Xi Xia, who lived south of the Gobi Desert and chose to pay tribute instead of fighting. This victory gave him control over part of the Silk Road and direct access to China, increasing Mongol wealth and expanding their influence over trade networks. Genghis Khan was also known for his tolerance of different religions and openness to new ideas, often incorporating foreign administrators and advisers into his growing empire.
SkillBuilder discussion Historical significance
1. What significance might the khan’s tent being the first to be erected have in terms of Mongol leadership and authority? 2. How does the presence of court officials around the khan in the image reflect the political structure and governance of the Mongol Empire? 3. Why do you think yak tails were used as a symbol of the khan’s presence, and what might this signify about Mongol culture and symbolism?
SOURCE3 Genghis Khan met with a Taoist holy sage, or holy man, in 1221. The record of his conversation with Ch’ang-Ch’un presents a different image of the Great Khan.
I hate luxury and exercise in moderation [the Khan wrote]. I have only one coat and one food. I eat the same food and am dressed in the same tatters as my humble herdsmen ... In the space of seven years I have succeeded in accomplishing a great work, uniting the whole world in one empire. I have not myself distinguished qualities ... But as my calling is high, the obligations incumbent on me are also heavy and I fear that in my rule there may be something wanting. To cross a river we need boats and rudders. Likewise we invite sages and choose assistants to keep the empire in good order ... I implore thee to move thy sainted steps. Do not think of the extent of the sandy desert. Commiserate with the people in the present situation or have pity upon me and tell me the means to preserve life.
Jacaranda Humanities Alive 8 Victorian Curriculum Third Edition
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