Tolui

Tolui led a major Mongol army during the invasion of the Khwarezmian Empire. He captured the cities of Merv, Nishapur, and Herat, employing brutal tactics that resulted in massive civilian casualties and the destruction of these centers.

After Genghis Khan's death, Tolui served as regent of the Mongol Empire for two years until a kurultai elected Ogedei as Great Khan. He managed the empire's affairs and maintained stability during the interregnum.

Tolui died under mysterious circumstances, possibly from alcoholism or poisoning. Some accounts claim he sacrificed himself by drinking poisoned wine to cure Ogedei's illness. His death elevated his sons, Mongke and Kublai, to prominence.