While his image in some regions of the world has traditionally been that of a ruthless and bloodthirsty conqueror, Genghis Khan is an iconic and beloved figure in Mongolia, where he is seen as the father of the Mongol Nation. Before becoming a Khan, Temüjin eliminated and united many of the nomadic tribes of north East Asia and Central Asia under a social identity as the "Mongols."Genghis Khan was born between 1150 and 1160. In his early childhood, he learned how to ride a horse at a very young age. Later when he was over six years old, he was allowed to participate in uniting expeditions with his clan/tribe. At around the age of nine, his tribal leader father was poisoned and he and his household was driven away by his clan that thought he was too young to rule. Taught by his mother, he became leader of his family and learned how to care for and protect others which would be important for controlling an empire.