Chronology: Medieval History | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Chronology - Medieval India (1192-1761)

• The year 1192 typically marks the beginning of medieval India with the First Battle of Tarain.
• This battle led to the establishment of Islamic rule in North India by Muhammad Ghori.
• The end date of 1761 is marked by a significant event, such as the Battle of Panipat.
• This battle saw the decline of Mughal dominance and set the stage for British colonialism.
• Many historians place the end of medieval India closer to 1707.
• The death of Aurangzeb in 1707 signalled the decline of the Mughal Empire.
• After 1707, the subcontinent saw increasing European influence and regional fragmentation.
• This gradually transitioned the region into the colonial era.

Ghurid Dynasty and Early Islamic Conquests (1192-1206)

• The Ghurid Dynasty marked the beginning of Muslim rule in North India.
• Qutb-ud-din Aibak conquered Delhi.
• This era was defined by important battles, such as the defeat of Jaychandra at the Battle of Chandwar.
• Bakhtiyar Khalji conducted conquests in Bihar and Bengal.
• These events established the groundwork for Islamic rule in India.

Mamluk or Slave Dynasty (1206-1290)

Khalji Dynasty (1290-1320)

• The Khalji Dynasty, under the leadership of rulers like Ala-ud-din Khalji, was known for its military conquests and administrative reforms.
• Ala-ud-din's reign was significant for the expansion into Southern India, led by his general Malik Kafur.
• Reforms in price control and efforts to create a highly centralized empire were notable during this period.

Tughluq Dynasty (1320-1414)

• The Tughluq Dynasty is remembered for its ambitious projects.
• Muhammad bin Tughluq made a problematic move by relocating the capital to Daulatabad.
• Firoz Shah Tughluq initiated extensive public works and welfare initiatives.
• The dynasty witnessed the beginning of the decline of the Delhi Sultanate.
• It faced revolts and economic distress.

Sayyid Dynasty (1414-1451)

• The Sayyid Dynasty was a time when the Delhi Sultanate was weakening.
• There were many internal conflicts, and the rulers had less control over their territory.
• They faced problems gaining support and struggled against stronger regional powers.
• This struggle eventually led to their fall.

Lodi Dynasty (1451-1526)

• The Lodi Dynasty was the last dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate.
• It is known for its Afghan origins.
• Under Sikandar Lodi, the empire saw attempts at consolidation and some territorial expansion.
• The dynasty's end came with the defeat of Ibrahim Lodi.
• This defeat occurred at the hands of Babur in the First Battle of Panipat.
• This battle led to the rise of the Mughal Empire.

Mughal Empire (1526-1857)

• The Mughal Empire, established by Babur after the First Battle of Panipat, is renowned for its cultural and architectural achievements.
• Akbar's reign, in particular, was noted for religious tolerance and administrative innovations.
• The empire reached its greatest territorial extent under Aurangzeb, but his policies contributed to its eventual decline.
• This decline opened the door for later colonial influence.

Regional Kingdoms and Sultanates (Throughout Mughal Era)

• At the same time as the Mughal Empire, several regional kingdoms and sultanates grew.
• Vijayanagar Empire was known for its wealth and cultural achievements.
• Important events during this period included Timur's invasion.
• The birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, was significant.
• The rise of Maratha leader Shivaji marked an important development.

Early Colonial Period (1498-1761)

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