He was born in the 1330s in the Chaghatayid Khanate, formerly the Mongol Empire. On the steppe, he rose from a lowly sheep thief to become one of history's greatest conquerors, uniting nearly all of Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Iran under his rule. But was he a great state builder or a bloodthirsty tyrant? Stephanie Honchell Smith puts this controversial figure on trial in History vs. Tamerlane. [Directed by Brett Underhill, PorkchopBob Studio, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Salil Bhayani, cAMP Studio].

Stephanie Honchell Smith: History vs. Tamerlane the Conqueror

History vs. Tamerlane the Conqueror

Timur, from sheep thief to unifier of Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Iran, showcases the dichotomy of a conqueror's legacy.

Despite 17 million deaths attributed to his campaigns, Timur's rule revitalized the Silk Road, fostering Eurasian commerce.

Timur's architectural and scholarly patronage laid foundations for a renaissance, influencing the Mughal Empire and beyond.