The Marathas, also known as the Maratha Empire or the Maratha Confederacy, were a powerful Hindu empire that emerged in the 17th century in the western region of present-day India. Under the leadership of various Maratha chiefs, they expanded their territories and became a dominant force in the Indian subcontinent.

However, as the Marathas expanded their influence, they also faced numerous battles and conflicts with their rivals, including the Mughals, the British, and other regional powers. These battles played a significant role in shaping the fate of the Marathas.

1. Rise of the Marathas:
- The Marathas initially served as vassals to the Bijapur Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire.
- With the decline of Mughal power in the early 18th century, the Marathas took advantage of the power vacuum and began expanding their territories.
- Under the leadership of Shivaji Bhosale, the Marathas established a strong kingdom and laid the foundation for the Maratha Empire.

2. Battle of Panipat (1761):
- One of the most significant events in Maratha history was the Battle of Panipat in 1761.
- The Marathas, led by their commander-in-chief, Sadashivrao Bhau, faced the Durrani Empire led by Ahmad Shah Durrani, also known as Ahmad Shah Abdali.
- The Marathas suffered a decisive defeat in this battle, which had far-reaching consequences for their empire.
- The loss at Panipat weakened the Marathas' military power and shattered their dreams of expanding further north.

3. Decline and Disintegration:
- The defeat at Panipat marked the beginning of the decline of the Maratha Empire.
- The Marathas faced internal conflicts, with various chiefs vying for power and regional autonomy.
- The British East India Company took advantage of the weakened Maratha Empire and gradually annexed their territories through a series of wars and treaties.
- The Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818) resulted in the complete defeat of the Marathas, and their empire was dissolved.

4. Signing of Treaties:
- While the Marathas did sign treaties at various points in history, these treaties usually followed battles or conflicts and were a result of their military defeats.
- The treaties often imposed terms and conditions that favored the British East India Company, leading to the gradual erosion of Maratha power.

In conclusion, the Marathas faced several battles and conflicts throughout their history. Although they initially rose to power and expanded their territories, their defeat in the Battle of Panipat and subsequent internal conflicts and wars led to their decline and eventual disintegration. The signing of treaties followed their defeats, which further weakened their empire and allowed the British East India Company to gain control over their territories.