Genghis Khan - First Steps to Greatness

Temujen awarded status based on ability, not birth. That attitude, however, was inconsistent with the Mongol belief that aristocratic privilege arose from nobility. A profound conflict, based on that differing philosophy, existed between Temujen and his blood brother. It ultimately led to a crisis between them and a catastrophic defeat for Temujen and his army.

Take a trip back in time to learn about the culture of the steppes, before Temujin became Genghis Khan,.in this clip from the BBC's Genghis Khan. It is based on a written history composed soon after the great ruler's death.