GEOGRAPHY OF ‘THE SECRET HISTORY OF THE MONGOLS’ : Location of c13th Mongol place names and topographical features in Northeast Mongolia

Abstract

This paper examines the time and space relationship of events recorded in ‘The Secret History of the Mongols’ (SH) by reference to primary and secondary associated historical sources,  available satellite imagery and the results of on the ground reconnaissance expeditions conducted in 2008, 2009 and 2010. The pre Chinghiss period of Temuchin’s life is irrevocably tied to NE Mongolia and in particular with the upper river basins of the rivers Kerulen and Onon, often referred to as ‘Ononkerule’, the homeland of 13th Century (C13th) Mongols. The expeditionary work carried out in this area, added to emerging historical evidence contributes significantly to the view that the SH accounts have real validity and can be geographically located. Since ‘The Secret History of the Mongols’ has become widely available in the public domain, considerable effort has been dedicated to identify the geographical locations of recorded  events in the life of Temuchin.  By the end of the C20th renowned Mongolists have advanced considerably the space time relationships of the pre Chinghiss Khan period of Temuchin’s life, with the geography of North East Mongolia. Notwithstanding these advances much remains to be investigated studied and tested, to dispel doubt and controversy.  Definitive identification of key events, named locations and geographical features, such as the whereabouts of the Tunggelik, Tana, Sanguur Streams and Burgi Ereg (Ergi) to name some and perhaps even where Chinghiss’s sacred mountain Burkhan Khaldun is not, will significantly improve our understanding of C13th Mongol History for the benefit of the people of Mongolia and worldwide interest. This paper will review geographical features and place names associated with Temuchin’s life, before being accorded the title of Chinghiss Khan (Genghis Khan) and present supporting evidence for their locations in relation to each other and with known locations in North East Mongolia.