Class 7 - Social Science - History - CBSE - NCERT
Chapter 4 The Mughals 16th to 17th Century
Summary of "The Mughals (16th to 17th Century)"
The Mughal Empire was one of the most powerful dynasties in Indian history, ruling from the 16th to the 17th century. The Mughals were descendants of two great rulers—Genghis Khan (Mongol side) and Timur (Timurid side). However, they preferred to be associated with Timur, as Genghis Khan was known for destruction.
Founding of the Mughal Empire
The Mughal Empire was founded by Babur in 1526 after his victory in the First Battle of Panipat. He used cannons and modern warfare techniques, which helped him defeat the Delhi Sultanate. Babur’s son Humayun faced difficulties and lost his kingdom for some time but later regained it with the help of the Persian ruler, Shah Tahmasp.
Expansion Under Akbar
The real expansion of the empire happened under Akbar (1556-1605). He introduced:
- Religious tolerance (Sulh-i Kul), allowing people of all religions to live peacefully.
- Mansabdari system, where officials (mansabdars) were ranked and given land assignments (jagirs) instead of salaries.
- Zabt system, a fair tax collection method introduced by Todar Mal.
- Rajput alliances, as he married Rajput princesses and appointed Rajput officials in his court.
Akbar’s policies made the Mughal Empire rich, stable, and powerful.
Jahangir and Shah Jahan
Akbar’s son Jahangir (1605-1627) continued his father’s policies and was influenced by his wife Nur Jahan, who played an important role in politics. Jahangir’s son Shah Jahan (1628-1658) is famous for his architectural achievements, including the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and Jama Masjid. His rule saw the empire at its peak in terms of wealth and culture.
Aurangzeb and the Decline of the Empire
Aurangzeb (1658-1707) was the last powerful Mughal ruler. He expanded the empire to its largest extent but:
- Imposed strict Islamic policies, which caused discontent among Hindus and Sikhs.
- Reintroduced the jizya tax on non-Muslims, which Akbar had removed.
- Fought long wars in the Deccan, which drained the empire’s resources.
- Faced revolts from Rajputs, Sikhs, Marathas, and peasants due to high taxes.
His policies weakened the empire, and after his death, the Mughals started losing control over their vast territories.
Mughal Administration and Revenue System
The Mughal administration was well-organized:
- Mansabdars (officials) were given ranks (zat) based on their military and administrative duties.
- Jagirdars collected revenue from the land but did not rule directly.
- Zamindars were local tax collectors, but sometimes they became too powerful and rebelled.
- Peasants had to pay high taxes, and their lives were difficult, especially under Aurangzeb.
Decline of the Mughal Empire
By the 18th century, the Mughal Empire started breaking apart because:
1. Too many mansabdars were appointed, but they were not paid properly.
2. Jagirs were over-exploited, leading to peasant revolts.
3. Independent states like Hyderabad and Awadh were formed.
4. European traders (British and French) started interfering in Indian politics.
Although the Mughals continued to rule from Delhi for some time, they had lost real power, and by 1857, the British completely took over India.
~~The END~~
Chapter 4 The Mughals 16th to 17th Century
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