Bumin Qaghan

Bumin, a vassal of the Rouran Khaganate, led a revolt of the Turkic tribes (Ashina clan) against Rouran rule. He defeated the Rouran forces and declared independence, marking the beginning of the First Turkic Khaganate.

Bumin Qaghan formed an alliance with the Western Wei dynasty of China, marrying a Western Wei princess. This alliance provided the Turks with Chinese support and technology, strengthening their position against the Rouran and other rivals.

Bumin Qaghan formally established the First Turkic Khaganate after defeating the Rouran. He took the title 'Qaghan' and set up his capital in the Orkhon Valley. The khaganate quickly became a major power on the Eurasian steppe.

Bumin Qaghan died shortly after founding the Turkic Khaganate, possibly from illness or wounds. His death led to the division of the khaganate between his sons, with the eastern and western halves ruled separately, though still under a single nominal authority.