Genghis Khan founded the Mongol Empire, which became the largest contiguous empire in history. Born as Temüjin in the 1160s, he united the Mongol tribes through a combination of military prowess, diplomacy, and strategic alliances. In 1206, he was proclaimed Genghis Khan, meaning "universal ruler." Under his leadership, the Mongol Empire expanded rapidly across Asia and into Europe, effectively changing trade routes, cultural exchanges, and military strategies. His legacy includes significant contributions to governance, communication, and the dissemination of ideas across the vast territories that the empire encompassed.