Genghis Khan was the founder of the Mongolian khaganate in northern Eurasia during the early 13th century. His empire stretched from Mongolia to Poland and was expanded by the Khan’s descendants to everywhere in Asia except India and became the largest contiguous empire in history. His exceptional military skills turned his fighters into a sophisticated permanent army with tactics allowing them to fight on several fronts to increase the empire’s expansion. His archers on horseback were known for their famous “Parthian shot”—turning back to fire an arrow during a retreat when the opponent’s forces were advancing and drawn out. This maneuver required great skill, demanding that the archers turn around in the saddle and hold on using only their legs, all while aiming at their enemy. His army was also known for attacking in waves—with archers firing a barrage of arrows then circling back to allow the next wave to advance—and dividing into small groups so that their entire strength could not be surrounded. Consequently, Genghis Khan is considered one of the greatest conquerors of all time and inspired fictional figures like Khan Noonien Singh of the Star Trek multiverse. He even made an appearance in Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure.

Unfortunately, Genghis Khan’s burial site remains unknown, much like his origin and genetic legacy. We may never trace his descendants, but the same is not true about his people. In 2020, the remains of dozens of ancient Mongolians who lived during the times of Genghis Khan were found. With the availability of over 50 genomes recovered from twelve sites in Mongolia, including Arkhangai, Bulgan, Dornod, Dundgobi, Khentii, Khovd, Khuvsgul Selenge, Sukhbaatar, Tuv, Umungobi, and Uvurkhangai, we can finally understand, for the first time in history, the origin of Khan’s people and their genetic legacy.

The test includes 25 medieval Mongolians who lived and fought during the times of Genghis Khan in the mid-13th century under the khaganate. The test provides a detailed historical, archeological, and paleogenetic background of medieval Mongols. It describes their relationships with other ancient Eurasians and their cultic practices. A detailed profile is available for every Mongol. Find out now how related you are to medieval Mongols.