According to the legends, Genghis Khan was born with a clot of blood in his hand, an ominous omen for glory. He is considered as one of the most important conquerors of all time and acquired the title Genghis Khan, which means “Universal Ruler” after unifying the Mongol tribes. Even though he had a fearsome reputation, he introduced writing to the Mongols, promoted trade, created their first law code and allowed all religions to be practiced freely in the whole Mongol world. He ruled from 1206 until his death in 1227 and built the foundations of an empire which, under his successors, ultimately controlled one-fifth of the globe.