Hoelun
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Hoelun was the mother of the Mongol Khan Genghis Khan and the grandmother of Ogedei Khan. She was the wife of Yesugei, the chief of the Kiyad clan. After Yesugei's death, his clan abandoned Hoelun and her sons, including Genghis Khan (Temüjin by birth). Therefore, Genghis Khan was raised in the harsh environment of the Mongolian steppes. According to Mongolian legend, Hoelun taught Genghis and his brothers the basics of unity and support for one another, even though Temüjin killed his brother in a disagreement over hunting spoils. She and her children managed to survive thanks to her skill at gathering food, hunting, and fishing.
Hoelun was born to the Olkhunut tribe. She later married a member of the Merkit tribe, but was abducted by Yesugei on her way back to the Merkit camp. Yesugei made Hoelun his chief wife. This was an honor, since only the chief wife could give birth to his heirs. Together with his wife Börte, Hoelun was counted as one of the most trusted advisors of Genghis Khan.
