Introduction:
The Mughal Empire was established by Babur, who was a descendant of both Timur (Tamerlane) and Genghis Khan. However, the Mughals placed more emphasis on their Timurid heritage rather than their Mongol ancestry. This choice can be attributed to several reasons, including historical, cultural, and political considerations.

Historical Considerations:
1. Babur's Connection to Timur:
- Babur traced his ancestry directly to Timur through his father's side.
- Timur was a renowned conqueror and ruler who had established the Timurid Empire in Central Asia. He was highly regarded as a powerful and influential leader.

2. Timur's Legacy:
- Timur's empire had a significant impact on the region, and his descendants, the Timurids, carried forward his legacy.
- By emphasizing their Timurid descent, the Mughals sought to align themselves with the prestige and grandeur associated with Timur and his empire.
- It provided them with a historical connection to a renowned dynasty, which enhanced their legitimacy as rulers.

Cultural Considerations:
1. Persian Influence:
- The Timurids were closely associated with Persian culture and had adopted Persian as their court language.
- By identifying themselves as Timurids, the Mughals aligned themselves with Persian cultural traditions, such as art, literature, and architecture.
- This cultural association helped the Mughals establish a distinct identity and fostered a sense of sophistication and refinement.

2. Islamic Heritage:
- The Timurids were known for their patronage of Islamic arts and scholarship.
- By emphasizing their Timurid lineage, the Mughals showcased their commitment to Islam and their association with a dynasty known for its support of Islamic culture and institutions.

Political Considerations:
1. Uniting Diverse Subjects:
- The Mughal Empire was a diverse empire, encompassing various ethnic and religious groups.
- Emphasizing the Timurid heritage helped create a common identity among these diverse subjects by focusing on their shared historical legacy.

2. Separation from Mongol Conquests:
- The Mongol Empire, established by Genghis Khan, was associated with a different period in history characterized by extensive conquests and a different set of cultural practices.
- By highlighting their Timurid ancestry, the Mughals distanced themselves from the Mongol conquests and the potential negative associations that came with it.

Conclusion:
The Mughals emphasized their Timurid descent over their Mongol ancestry due to historical, cultural, and political considerations. The Timurids provided a direct ancestral connection to Babur and offered a prestigious historical legacy through Timur. The association with Persian culture and Islamic heritage further strengthened the Mughals' identity. Additionally, emphasizing the Timurid lineage helped unite diverse subjects within the empire and distanced the Mughals from the conqueror image associated with the Mongol Empire.