Final answer:
Temujin, later known as Genghis Khan, overcame early life hardships and reformed traditional Mongol warfare and societal practices, establishing trials and executions for aristocratic captives, and fostering a loyal, classless warrior society. He formed a powerful, unified, multiethnic empire, becoming the ruler of the People of the Felt Walls by 1204.
Step-by-step explanation:
Temujin, who later became known as Genghis Khan, was born in 1162 into a climate of intense tribal conflict on the steppes of Mongolia. After his father's death, his family was ostracized, and he faced hardships including a period of enslavement. Surviving these adversities, Temujin sought to unite the various Mongol tribes. His approach to warfare diverged drastically from then-prevailing practices, particularly in how he treated captured adversaries. Instead of enslaving adult males from defeated clans, he placed aristocratic prisoners on trial and upon inevitable conviction, executed them. This strategy eliminated potential future threats and his policy of equally dividing spoils among participants and the families of fallen warriors served to foster unparalleled loyalty among his followers. Additionally, Temujin revolutionized military organization, forming a classless society of warriors through his meritocratic system for choosing commanders, which further empowered commoners and sowed fear among aristocracy.
The dramatic shifts in Mongol practices laid by Temujin enabled him to forge a multiethnic empire marked by innovative military tactics, loyalty incentives, and new societal roles. By 1204, he had emerged as the undisputed leader of the Mongols, known as the People of the Felt Walls - a moniker referencing their yurt dwellings. His story from survival to domination epitomizes the remarkable transformation from Temujin to the title by which he is best remembered: Chinggis Khan, the universal ruler.