The event that led to the establishment of Genghis Khan as the ruler of a vast empire was his unification of the Mongol tribes in 1206. Originally born as Temujin, he overcame considerable adversity and rising conflict among tribes. Through strategic alliances and military prowess, Genghis Khan united the Mongols under one banner, leveraging cultural and trade ties with conquered regions to enhance his power. His leadership initiated the expansion of the Mongol Empire, which became the largest contiguous empire in history, significantly impacting trade, culture, and the political landscape across Eurasia.