Mongols: The Secret History

In this three-part series, using the latest research, we reveal the extraordinary story behind the rise of Genghis Khan, from outcast to the ruler of the Mongol Empire, which under his sons and grandsons became one of the largest land empires in history. For centuries Genghis Khan and his descendants have been branded bloodthirsty warlords, but in reality they were so much more. The Mongols empowered women, embraced all religions and they created a sophisticated communication system that played such a crucial role in the empire’s expansion. They also directly influenced innovations in science, finance, warfare, art and architecture. To discover more we journey to the vast, remote, grasslands of Mongolia, to find out how the daily life of today’s nomadic herders mirrors the people from 800 years ago. We reveal the few remains left behind by the Mongols, including a recently discovered warrior mummy. And we discover how the legacy of Genghis Khan is still at the centre of Mongolian identity today. (Viasat)