Death of Yesügei and Family's Struggle

The death of Yesügei had a profound impact on the unity of his people, which included various clans such as the Borjigin and Tayichiud. Following his passing, the leadership was left in a precarious position as his sons, Temüjin and Behter, were still very young, with Temüjin being under ten years old and Behter only slightly older. This lack of experienced leadership led to a significant power vacuum. The Tayichiud faction, in particular, took advantage of this situation by excluding Hö'elün, Yesügei's widow, from the ancestor worship ceremonies that typically followed the death of a ruler. This exclusion was a clear indication of the shifting loyalties within the clans, as many members of the Borjigin clan chose to abandon Hö'elün and her family, despite her attempts to appeal to their sense of honor and loyalty. The Secret History of the Mongols suggests that while some of Yesügei's brothers may have supported Hö'elün, the majority of the clan ultimately sided with the Tayichiud, leading to a significant decline in the status and support for Yesügei's family. As a result of this betrayal, Hö'elün and her children faced a drastic change in their circumstances. With the loss of their allies and the support of their clan, they were forced to adapt to a much harsher lifestyle. The family transitioned to a hunter-gatherer existence, relying on foraging for roots and nuts, hunting small game, and fishing to survive. This shift not only marked a significant change in their daily lives but also highlighted the fragility of alliances and the impact of leadership transitions within the Mongolian clans. The struggle of Hö'elün and her children serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by families in the wake of political upheaval and the often harsh realities of survival in a competitive tribal society.