00:00 The theme of this podcast episode is Genghis Khan and the correct pronunciation of his name is "Genghis" according to Persian historians.

04:05 The secret history of Genghis Khan is primarily based on Chinese chronicles that have been translated and re-translated, but there are also accounts from Persian historians that can be compared to provide insight into his early life.

07:35 Genghis Khan was able to unite the various tribes of the Mongol Confederation and direct them towards a common enemy, creating a powerful fighting force that was a shock to the Chinese and Persian authorities.

11:02 Genghis Khan grows up in a nomadic tribe and has a disdain for cities and peasants, but values artisans and actors.

14:32 Genghis Khan faces rejection and hardship, including the death of his father, rejection by the Mongols, living in poverty, killing his half-brother, being captured and enslaved, and his wife being kidnapped by the Merkits.

18:04 Genghis Khan forms alliances with his blood brother Jamuka and a man named Togrel to rescue his kidnapped wife, and despite being defeated by Jamuka at one point, Genghis Khan gains support and loyalty from others due to his charisma and ability to lead.

21:32 Genghis Khan's ability to win people over and form alliances, including blood brother relationships, is a key factor in his success and the loyalty he gains from others.

24:55 The Mongols have a spiritual element to their beliefs, but they are not concerned with the specific religion of their subjects as long as they pay taxes; initially, the Mongols are not skilled at siege warfare, but they become more systematic after acquiring siege workers during their conquest of the Islamic lands; the Mongols' use of the composite bow on horseback makes them a lethal force, and their conquests happen just before the arrival of gunpowder.

28:13 After defeating Wang Khan and having Jamuka handed over to him by his own men, Temujin spares Jamuka's life due to their blood brotherhood, but Jamuka insists on being executed, and he is killed by having his back broken on a wheel, solidifying Temujin's position as the leader of the Mongol Confederacy.