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History

Gaekwads

The Gaekwads, a Maratha dynasty ruling Baroda from 1721 to 1947, began as Peshwa commanders. They expanded influence, became British allies post-Treaty of Bassein, and saw major reforms under Sayajirao Gaekwad III, with their rule ending in 1949.

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Medieval India

Scindias (1731–1947)

The Scindias (also spelled Shindes) were a powerful Maratha dynasty that ruled Gwalior and North India. Originally military commanders under the Peshwas, they later established an independent state in Gwalior. The Scindias played a key role in the Maratha Empire, Anglo-Maratha Wars, and Indian history until 1947. Basic Information on the Scindias Founding of the […]

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Medieval India

Holkars (1731–1818) Maratha Rulers of Malwa

The Holkars were a powerful Maratha dynasty that ruled Indore and Malwa from 1731 to 1818. They were originally military commanders under the Peshwas but later established their own kingdom. The Holkars played a crucial role in Maratha expansion, Anglo-Maratha Wars, and the resistance against the British. Basic Information on the Holkars Founding of the […]

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Medieval India

Peshwas (1713–1818)

The Peshwas, initially serving under Maratha kings, evolved into real rulers, expanding the empire until their defeat in the Third Anglo-Maratha War in 1818, marking the end of their authority and the Maratha Empire’s decline.

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Medieval India

Sambhaji Maharaj (1681–1689)

Sambhaji Maharaj was the eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. He is known for his bravery, resistance against the Mughals, and his martyrdom at the hands of Aurangzeb. Basic Information on Sambhaji Maharaj Early Life of Sambhaji Accession to the Throne (1681) Military Campaigns and Battles 1. […]

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Medieval India

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630–1680) – The Founder of the Maratha Empire

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was the founder of the Maratha Empire and one of the greatest warriors in Indian history. He challenged the Mughal and Bijapur Sultanates, introduced guerrilla warfare tactics, and established a strong naval and administrative system. Basic Information on Shivaji Maharaj Shivaji’s Early Life and Rise Military Campaigns and Battles 1. Battle of […]

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Medieval India

Aurangzeb (1658–1707) – The Last Powerful Mughal Emperor

Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal emperor, ruled from 1658 to 1707, noted for military expansion and strict Islamic policies. His reign marked the Mughal Empire’s decline, with significant battles against the Marathas and Rajputs. He reimposed the Jizya tax on non-Muslims and destroyed Hindu temples, leading to resistance from various groups, including the Sikhs. Despite expanding the empire to its largest extent, Aurangzeb’s long wars drained the treasury and alienated subjects. His death in 1707 resulted in a swift decline of Mughal power, with weak successors failing to maintain control.

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Medieval India

Shah Jahan (1628–1658) – The Mughal Emperor of Architecture

Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, reigned during a golden age of Mughal architecture, noted for constructing the Taj Mahal. His military campaigns expanded the empire, but his rule ended when his son Aurangzeb imprisoned him. Shah Jahan died in 1666, buried beside his beloved wife in the Taj Mahal.

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Medieval India

Jahangir (1605–1627) – The Fourth Mughal Emperor

Jahangir, the fourth Mughal emperor, ruled from 1605 until his death in 1627. His reign saw artistic patronage and relative stability, but faced rebellions and foreign influence, especially from the British. He advanced trade, enforced his father’s religious policies, and was significantly influenced by his wife, Nur Jahan.

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Medieval India

Akbar (1556–1605) – The Greatest Mughal Emperor

Akbar, the third Mughal emperor, ruled from 1556 to 1605, known for his military conquests, administrative reforms, and promoting religious tolerance through Sulh-i-Kul. He expanded the empire significantly, introduced the Mansabdari system, and initiated Din-i-Ilahi. His reign is marked as the golden age of the Mughal Empire with notable achievements in governance and culture.