THE RISE OF TEMUDJIN "GENGHIS KHAN" - Chapter 3: Wang Khan of the Keraits.

THE MONGOLS HISTORY - by Jeremiah Curtin - HQ Full Book.

In Chapter 3 of The Mongols: A History, Jeremiah Curtin explores the complex and often volatile relationship between Temudjin (later Genghis Khan) and Wang Khan of the Keraits, a figure who began as an ally and ended as a tragic rival. This chapter delves into their joint campaigns, betrayals, and eventual conflict, set against the broader backdrop of Mongolian tribal warfare. 

The Campaign Against the Lake Buyur Tartars
The alliance between Temudjin and Togrul, the leader of the Keraits (later known as Wang Khan), gained momentum with a joint campaign against the Lake Buyur Tartars. Their victory over the Tartars strengthened Togrul's position, leading to his elevation as Wang Khan, a title granted by the Jin Empire, signifying recognition of his power and influence. This marked a critical point in Temudjin’s rise, as his association with Wang Khan boosted his political clout. 

Attack on the Churkis and Their Origins
Shortly after, Temudjin launched a campaign against the Churkis, a minor but fiercely independent tribe. Curtin traces the origins of the Churkis, providing context for their role in the steppe’s complex web of alliances and rivalries. The defeat of the Churkis, marked by the death of their leader Buri Buga, demonstrated Temudjin’s growing military acumen and his relentless pursuit of dominance. 

Hoelun’s Adopted Sons
While Temudjin’s conquests continued, Hoelun, his mother, played a significant role in strengthening their family’s base of power. She adopted two sons, solidifying alliances that would prove crucial in future campaigns. These adopted sons became loyal supporters of Temudjin, reflecting his reliance on kinship and loyalty networks to consolidate power. 

Campaign Against the Merkits and Wang Khan’s Desertion
In 1197, Temudjin and Wang Khan joined forces to attack the Merkits, who had long been a thorn in Temudjin’s side. The campaign was successful, but Wang Khan’s loyalty soon wavered. Facing pressure from rival tribes and internal dissent, Wang Khan deserted the alliance. This moment marked the first cracks in their partnership. 

Rescue and Second Defeat of the Naimans
Wang Khan’s forces suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of the Naimans, another powerful Mongolian tribe. Temudjin, demonstrating remarkable loyalty despite Wang Khan’s earlier desertion, rescued him and helped orchestrate a second defeat of the Naimans. This act deepened their bond, with Wang Khan regarding Temudjin as a son. Their renewed alliance culminated in a joint campaign against the Taidjuts in 1200. 

Campaign Against the Taidjuts and Growing Rivalries
The Taidjuts, bolstered by several neighboring tribes, presented a formidable challenge to Temudjin and Wang Khan. The coalition of Taidjuts swore an oath of loyalty, making ritual offerings before battle. Despite their unity, they were decisively defeated by Temudjin and Wang Khan’s combined forces. This victory not only expanded Temudjin’s territory but also heightened tensions with Jamuka, Temudjin’s former friend and now bitter rival, who sought to rally opposition to Temudjin’s growing power. 

Jamuka’s Bid for Power and Defeat
In 1201, Jamuka was declared Khan by his followers, consolidating a coalition to challenge Temudjin. Curtin recounts Jamuka’s attempt to ambush Temudjin, using shamans to summon wind and rain in a bid to weaken his forces. Despite these efforts, Temudjin triumphed. The campaign ended with severe reprisals against Jamuka’s followers, illustrating Temudjin’s ruthless approach to dissent. 

Temudjin’s Family Alliances and New Campaigns
Temudjin continued to strengthen his position through strategic marriages. He married Aisugan, securing another powerful alliance, and later sought Wang Khan’s granddaughter as a bride for his son Juchi. At the same time, Temudjin’s forces defeated Tukta Bijhi, a Merkit leader, further consolidating his dominance. 

Jamuka’s Intrigue and Sengun’s Jealousy
Jamuka, always scheming, sought to sow discord between Temudjin and Wang Khan by exploiting the jealousy of Sengun, Wang Khan’s son. Sengun, resentful of Temudjin’s influence over his father, began to conspire against their alliance. This internal strife set the stage for a betrayal that would alter the power dynamics on the steppe. 

Plot to Kill Temudjin and Wang Khan’s Attack
A conspiracy to assassinate Temudjin was uncovered, leading to a direct confrontation. Wang Khan and Sengun launched a surprise attack on Temudjin, but he emerged victorious, showcasing his military brilliance. This betrayal irreparably damaged their alliance. 

Temudjin’s Messages to His Enemies
Curtin details Temudjin’s calculated responses to Wang Khan, Sengun, and Jamuka, sending messages that balanced threats with diplomacy. These exchanges highlighted his ability to wield both words and weapons effectively in his quest for supremacy. 

Defeat of Wang Khan and Sengun
In 1203, Temudjin launched a decisive campaign against Wang Khan and Sengun. His forces triumphed, and Wang Khan was killed, marking the end of the Kerait leader’s tumultuous reign. Sengun met a similar fate, crushed under the weight of Temudjin’s unstoppable rise. 

Rewarding Loyalty and Securing Alliances
After his victory, Temudjin rewarded his warriors generously, cementing their loyalty. He also took Jaganbo’s daughter, Wang Khan’s niece, as a wife, securing the remnants of the Kerait faction under his control. 

Conclusion: Lessons from Wang Khan’s Fall
The chapter concludes with reflections on the rise and fall of Wang Khan. His initial alliance with Temudjin was instrumental in the latter’s rise, but internal strife and wavering loyalty led to his demise. Curtin emphasizes how Temudjin’s combination of military strategy, political acumen, and ruthless pragmatism enabled him to outmaneuver his rivals and unify the Mongolian steppe.

Chapter 3 illustrates the volatile nature of alliances in Mongolian politics and the unrelenting drive of Temudjin to achieve dominance. The narrative captures the high stakes of tribal warfare, where loyalty was fleeting, and survival depended on both strength and cunning. This chapter underscores the complex interplay of kinship, betrayal, and ambition that characterized Temudjin’s path to becoming Genghis Khan.

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