The Mughal Empire declined during the first half of the 18th century. ...
Mughal Empire Decline
The Mughal Empire was one of the most powerful empires in India, ruling from the early 16th century until the mid-19th century. However, the decline of the Mughal Empire began in the first half of the 18th century.
Causes of Decline
The decline of the Mughal Empire was caused by a number of factors, including:
1. Weak Rulers: The Mughal emperors who ruled during the 18th century were weak and ineffective. They lacked the ability to govern effectively and were easily manipulated by their courtiers.
2. Economic Decline: The Mughal Empire's economy began to decline in the 18th century due to the loss of revenue from the declining agricultural sector and the decline of the textile industry.
3. Political Instability: The Mughal Empire was plagued by political instability during the 18th century. There were frequent rebellions by regional governors and the empire was constantly under threat from external powers.
4. Military Weakness: The Mughal Empire's military strength declined significantly during the 18th century. The empire was unable to defend itself against the growing power of the Maratha Confederacy and other regional powers.
British Occupation of Delhi
The decline of the Mughal Empire was so severe that the British army was able to occupy Delhi in 1803. This marked the beginning of British rule in India, which lasted until India gained independence in 1947.
The British initially entered India as traders, but soon began to expand their influence through military conquest. The occupation of Delhi was a major milestone in the British conquest of India, as it gave them control over the Mughal capital and symbol of power.
The British continued to expand their control over India, gradually taking over more and more territory until they became the dominant power in the subcontinent. The decline of the Mughal Empire was a key factor in the British conquest of India, as it weakened the existing power structures and allowed the British to expand their influence.
The Mughal Empire declined during the first half of the 18th century. ...
A)1803
The great Mughal Empire, the envy of its contemporaries for almost two centuries, declined and disintegrated during the first half of the eighteenth century. The Mughal emperors lost their power and glory and their empire shrank to a few square miles around Delhi.
n the end, in 1803, Delhi itself was occupied by the British army and the proud Mughal emperor was reduced to the status of a mere pensioner of a foreign power.