Ogedei was the third son of Genghis Khan, the founder of the Mongol Empire. He was born in 1186 and became the second Great Khan of the Mongol Empire after his father's death in 1227. Ogedei played a crucial role in expanding the empire and is known for his administrative skills and efforts to consolidate Mongol rule. Under Ogedei's leadership, the Mongol Empire reached its greatest territorial extent. He established a capital at Karakorum and promoted trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road. His reign lasted until his death in 1241, after which the empire continued to thrive under his successors.