Struggle for Power in 18th Century India
The 18th century in India was marked by significant political upheaval and power struggles among various factions. Four notable parties in this struggle were:

1. The Mughal Empire
- The Mughal Empire, once a powerful entity under rulers like Aurangzeb, faced significant decline due to internal strife and external pressures.
- The weakening central authority led to the rise of regional powers and the eventual disintegration of Mughal control.

2. The Marathas
- The Maratha Confederacy emerged as a dominant force, capitalizing on the Mughal decline.
- They expanded their territory significantly under leaders like Chhatrapati Shivaji and later, the Peshwas, establishing a formidable presence in central and western India.

3. The British East India Company
- The British East India Company, initially a commercial enterprise, transformed into a military power through battles and strategic alliances.
- Key victories, such as the Battle of Plassey in 1757, laid the foundation for British dominance in India.

4. The Sikhs
- The Sikh Empire, led by leaders like Maharaja Ranjit Singh, sought to consolidate power in Punjab.
- The Sikhs were instrumental in resisting Mughal authority and played a crucial role in regional politics.

Winner of the Power Struggle
- Ultimately, the British East India Company emerged as the winner in the struggle for power in 18th century India.
- By the end of the century, they had established control over vast territories, laying the groundwork for British colonial rule, which would dominate the subcontinent for nearly two centuries.
This period set the stage for significant socio-political changes that would influence India's future.

French, Dutch, Portuguese, British
British EEIC was winner