Timur, also known as Tamerlane, was a 14th-century conqueror and military leader from Central Asia. He was born in 1336 in what is now Uzbekistan and founded the Timurid Empire. Timur is known for his military campaigns that expanded his territory across parts of Persia, India, and Russia. His empire was marked by significant cultural and architectural achievements. Timur claimed descent from Genghis Khan and sought to restore the Mongol Empire's former glory. He was a skilled strategist and often employed brutal tactics in warfare. Despite his reputation for violence, Timur also patronized the arts and architecture, leading to a flourishing of culture in his empire.