Approach to Succession and Inheritance in Mughal Administration

Coparcenary

In the Mughal administration, the approach to succession and inheritance was based on the system of coparcenary. Coparcenary refers to a system where all the male descendants of a common ancestor have an equal right to ancestral property. This system was prevalent in the Mughal Empire and was an important aspect of their governance.

Explanation:

- Coparcenary System: In the Mughal Empire, the system of coparcenary allowed all male descendants of a common ancestor to have an equal share in the inheritance of property. This meant that upon the death of a ruler, his property would be divided among his male descendants, ensuring an equal distribution of wealth and power among the heirs.

- Succession: The Mughal rulers did not follow the practice of primogeniture, where the eldest son inherits the throne. Instead, succession was based on the principle of coparcenary, where all male descendants had an equal right to the throne. This often led to power struggles and conflicts among the heirs, as each one vied for the position of the ruler.

- Inheritance: In terms of inheritance, the coparcenary system ensured that wealth and property were distributed equally among the male descendants of the ruler. This helped in maintaining a balance of power within the royal family and prevented the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few individuals.

- Impact: The coparcenary system had a significant impact on the Mughal administration, as it influenced succession and inheritance practices within the royal family. It also shaped the dynamics of power and authority within the empire, leading to complex relationships among the rulers and their heirs.

In conclusion, the Mughal administration's approach to succession and inheritance was based on the system of coparcenary, which allowed for an equal distribution of wealth and power among the male descendants of a ruler.