Can you explain the answer of this question below:Why is it considered...
After his death in 1707, several Mughal governors (Subadars) and big Zamindars began asserting their authority and setting up regional kingdoms.
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Can you explain the answer of this question below:Why is it considered...
**Introduction:**
After the death of Aurangzeb, Delhi was no longer able to function effectively as a center of power and authority. This can be attributed to several factors that emerged during this period. One of the main reasons was the emergence of powerful regional kingdoms that asserted their authority, leading to a decentralization of power and a weakening of Delhi's control. This answer will explore this factor in detail.
**Emergence of Regional Kingdoms:**
- The death of Aurangzeb in 1707 marked the end of the Mughal Empire's centralized rule.
- Aurangzeb's long and oppressive reign had weakened the empire and created discontent among various regional powers.
- After his death, these regional powers began to assert their authority and challenge the Mughal control.
- Powerful kingdoms like the Marathas, Rajputs, and Sikhs emerged in various parts of India and started establishing their own rule.
- These regional powers had their own armies, administration, and territories, leading to a fragmentation of power.
**Weakening of Delhi's Control:**
- The emergence of regional kingdoms weakened Delhi's control over the vast territories of the Mughal Empire.
- The Mughal emperors who succeeded Aurangzeb lacked his military and administrative capabilities, making it difficult for them to maintain control over the entire empire.
- The regional kingdoms took advantage of this weakness and gradually expanded their territories, reducing the influence of Delhi.
**Decentralization of Power:**
- As power shifted from Delhi to the regional kingdoms, the center of political and administrative authority shifted as well.
- The regional kingdoms became more autonomous and independent, making decisions based on their own interests rather than the interests of Delhi.
- This decentralization of power further weakened Delhi's ability to function effectively as a center.
**Impact on Trade and Economy:**
- Delhi had been a major center of trade and economic activity during the Mughal Empire.
- However, with the decline of centralized authority, the trading activities from Delhi suffered.
- The emergence of regional kingdoms meant that trade routes were disrupted, and the economic prosperity of Delhi declined.
- The regional kingdoms focused on developing their own trade routes and centers, diminishing the importance of Delhi as a trading hub.
**Conclusion:**
The emergence of powerful regional kingdoms and the subsequent decentralization of power were key factors that rendered Delhi ineffective as a center after the death of Aurangzeb. These regional powers challenged the Mughal control, weakened Delhi's influence, and disrupted trade and economic activities. This marked a significant shift in the political and economic landscape of India, with power becoming increasingly decentralized and fragmented.
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