The first ruler of the Mongol Empire was Genghis Khan. Born as Temujin around 1162, he unified the Mongol tribes and launched a series of military campaigns that expanded his empire across large parts of Asia and Europe. Genghis Khan was proclaimed the Great Khan in 1206, leading to the establishment of the Mongol Empire, which became the largest contiguous empire in history. His innovative strategies, military organization, and leadership skills contributed to his conquests. Genghis Khan is remembered not only for his conquests but also for his influence on trade and cultural exchange across Eurasia.