International Hope School Bangladesh

202 2 – 2 2024-25 ACADEMIC YEAR – FIRST TERM –Bangladesh Studies LESSON

Focus Point 4: The achievements of the Mughal emperors.

The military, administrative and social policy achievements of Emperor Humayun:

Humayun was the second emperor of the Mughal Empire, ruling from 1530 to 1540 and then again from 1555 until
his death in 1556. His reign was marked by a series of challenges, including military defeats, internal dissent, and the
loss and subsequent recovery of his empire. Despite these obstacles, Humayun's perseverance and strategic
alliances significantly contributed to laying the groundwork for the expanded empire his successor, Akbar the Great,
would inherit.

Humayun is known for his significant contributions to Persian art and architecture, his reign marked the dawn of
an era embellished with majestic monuments like the Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Delhi.
Despite facing challenges, including a temporary exile, Humayun's legacy of artistic and cultural flourish
continues to captivate historians and tourists alike.

Humayun's Wars (1530-1540)

His early reign was defined by ambitious military campaigns and efforts to consolidate power within the region.
However, these endeavors were not without their setbacks, leading to a temporally fragmented empire due to the
rise of formidable adversaries, such as Sher Shah Suri.

already defeated the Sisodia chief of Chittor and conquered Malwa (1531) and
Raisen (1532). (1533). He had openly provided shelter and assistance to
numerous Afghan refugees and Humayun's adversaries. Therefore, Humayu

Battles Fought by Humayun

Humayun fought several battles during his reign to maintain and expand his empire. Here are some of the
significant battles fought by Humayun:

Conflict with Bahadur Shah:

Revolt of Kamran: Karman took the opportunity of Humayun’s pre occupation and tried to raise a revolt against
him and annexed Multan and Lahore and also asked Humayun to give him Punjab. Inorder to end up the rivalry
Humayun agreed on his demand.

Battle of Chunar(1532A.D): After ending the problem of Kamran Humayun paid attention towards the problem
of Afghans and surrounded the fort of Chunar with the help of his army.

Struggle with the ruler of Gujarat: Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat, sought to expand his territory, posing a
threat to Humayun's rule. The Mughal forces confronted Bahadur Shah near Mandu.
Causes of Conflict: Bahadur Shah was very ambitious and he has set his eyes upon Delhi. Humayun was
equally ambitious to expand his territories.

Bahadur Shah had given political asylum to Mahdi Khwaja, a brother- in-law of Humayun, who had
claimed the throne of Delhi. He had also sheltered some of the Lodi princes who were enemies of
Humayun and wanted to regain their lost territories from the Mughals.

Result of Gujarat expedition: The Gujarat expedition led by Humayun resulted in a Mughal victory, and it
allowed the Mughals to exert control over the territory of Gujarat Despite initial successes, Humayun’s army
faced difficulties in sustaining the campaign. Bahadur utilized guerrilla tactics and knowledge of local terrain,
making it challenging for Humayun's forces to defeat him decisively. Humayun should have suppressed this
revolt as soon as possible and captivated Bahadur Shah but he did not do so as a result of which Bahadur Shah
regained numerous parts of Gujarat.

Humayun’s Encounter with Sher Shah and his expulsion from India:

Causes of the conflict:

Babur had captured the throne of Delhi from the Afghans. They therefore, were quite hostile to Humayun.
Sher Shah Suri was also an Afghan. While Humayun was busy in fighting against Bahadur Shah of Gujarat,
Sher Shah consolidated his position in Bihar. He was in the possession of the strong fort of Chunar. Most of
the Afghan nobles had gathered under his banner. He attacked Bangal twice and took huge tribute from
the ruler. Humayun realized that it was necessary to subdue Sher Shah.

Events of struggle: Humayun and Sher Shah had three encounters with each offer i.e. at Chunar, Chausa
and Kannauj.

Siege of Chunar. (1532): This battle continued for four months. The fort of Chunar was then in the hands of
Sher Khan. Humayun’s army was headed by Hindu Beg. After this long four months battle Sher Khan
compromised and accepted the subordination of Humayun. Sher Khan, the Afghan ruler of the fort, accepted
Humayun's subordination. Though Sher Khan took a diplomatic stand as his military preparation were not yet
complete on the other hand Humayun wasted his time in celebrating this victory.

Battle of Chausa (1539): During this period Sher Shah greatly strengthened his position. He reorganised his
army. On the request of the ruler of Bengal, Humayun went to Bengal and spent about eight months is 1538 and
1539. During these eight months Sher Shah captured a number of places like Banaras, Sambhal etc.
Results:
It was a great victory for Sher Shah and consequently he declared himself the Sultan.
Sher Shah, thereafter captured Bengal.Again it was a great setback to Humayun.

The Battle of Kannauj (1540): Results of the conflicts:

1. After his defeat at Kannauj, Humayun had to spend about fifteen years in exile from 1540 to 1554.
2. Sher Shah became the ruler of Delhi.

Causes of the defeat of Humayun and Sher Shah’s success:

1. Inability of Humayun to understand the nature of Afghan power.
2. Lack of organisational ability in Humayun.
3. Unhelpful attitude of Humayun’s brothers.
4. Humayun’s incapability for sustained efforts.
5. Sher Shah’s diplomatic submission and lifting of Chunar’s sieze by Humayun.
6. Sher Shah’s qualities of a military leader.
7. Humayun’s revelry and wasting valuable time.Humayun’s war camp at low land.
9. Struggle at several fronts by Humayun. Sher Shah’s sudden attack at Humayun’s army in Kannauj.
10. No unity of command in Humayun’s army.

Humayun and the Empire’s Administrative System

Humayun began to face a number of serious problems, some of which had arisen after Babur’s death in
December 1530. A major problem was the unsettled state of the administration and the ambition of the Begs
who wanted to assert themselves. The Afghans had been weakened but continued to nurse the ambition of
setting up independent Afghan kingdoms, which could help in expelling the Mughals from India. Humayun, who
succeeded Babur, was burdened with the financial crisis that his father faced at the end of his reign in December
1530.

Administratively, Humayun established a more structured government system. He worked on consolidating the
administrative apparatus and attempted to implement a more efficient revenue system, though much of it was
disrupted during his exile.

Try these questions:

How did Humayun lose the Mughal territories in India?
Humayun was an inexperienced ruler when he came to the throne in 1530. A combination of feuds with his step-
brothers and inaction on his own part made it easy for Sher Shah Suri to concentrate his attacks on Mughal
territories from his base in Bengal. Following the battle of Kanauj in 1540, Humayun had to flee to Lahore while
Sher Shah

What were the significant achievements of Humayun during his reign?

Humayun's significant achievements include restoring the Mughal Empire in India in 1555 after regaining control
from the Sur Empire, laying the foundation for the grand Mughal architectural style, and consolidating his rule
through strategic alliances and military campaigns. His reign set the stage for the expansion under his son Akbar.

What factors contributed to Humayun's initial defeat by Sher Shah Suri?

Humayun's initial defeat by Sher Shah Suri was influenced by several factors including Humayun's lack of military
discipline and strategic acumen, the betrayal by some of his own commanders, and superior strategy and tactics
employed by Sher Shah Suri. Additionally, internal dissent and the division within Humayun's empire weakened his
position.

How did Humayun manage to regain control of his empire after being exiled?
Humayun regained control of his empire after being exiled by forming an alliance with the Safavid Shah of
Persia, Shah Tahmasp, who provided him with a substantial military force. With this backing, he was able to
capture Kabul and eventually defeat the Suri dynasty at the Battle of Sirhind in 1555, restoring his rule over
India.
What were the weakness of Humayun?
Humayun's great generosity was one of his flaws, which allowed his opponents to take advantage of him.
Another flaw was his misguided clemency, which allowed him to forgive his brother despite all of their
wrongdoings against Humayun.
What were the major challenges Humayun faced during his reign?

Military Defeats: Humayun suffered significant military setbacks, most notably against Sher Shah Suri, an Afghan
leader who defeated him at the battles of Chausa (1539) and Kannauj (1540). These defeats led to Humayun’s
temporary exile from India

Internal Dissent: There was considerable internal strife within the Mughal court. Factionalism and rivalry among
his nobles weakened his position, making it difficult to consolidate his rule effectively2.

Political Instability: The political landscape during Humayun’s reign was highly unstable. He faced continuous
threats from regional powers and had to deal with rebellions and challenges to his authority.

Exile and Loss of Empire: After his defeat by Sher Shah Suri, Humayun spent several years in exile, wandering
through various regions seeking support. This period of exile was a significant challenge as he struggled to regain
his throne4.

Family Rivalries: Humayun’s relationship with his brothers, particularly Kamran Mirza, was fraught with tension
and rivalry. Kamran controlled Kabul and Kandahar and often acted against Humayun’s interests, further
complicating his efforts to stabilize his rule

The military, religious and administrative achievements of Emperor Akbar:

What is Akbar the Great most famous for?

Akbar the Great is most famous for his religious tolerance and multicultural view of different cultures. He
encouraged and participated in celebrations of all religions.

The Administration of Akbar

Akbar introduced a number of innovative reforms that fundamentally altered the landscape of Mughal
administration. His system of governance was characterised by a sophisticated bureaucracy, centralisation of
power, and a fair revenue system.

The Mansabdari system

He established the Mansabdari system, a unique structure of military and civil governance that classified officials
into ranks, or 'Mansabs', based on their duties and merit. This system ensured a more organised and efficient
administration, paving the way for the empire's unprecedented growth. The Mansabdari system was not just
about military rankings; it was an ingenious method of integrating the military and administrative aspects of
governance. Officers were given land grants or cash salaries and were responsible for maintaining a specified
number of soldiers. This system facilitated the mobilisation of a large and efficient army while also ensuring the
loyalty of key administrative and military personnel. The Mughals were thus able to maintain a degree of control
and stability across vast territories, which was crucial for the empire's administrative efficiency and military
success.

System of revenue collection

Another key reform was the introduction of the ''Zabt'' system of revenue collection, which standardized tax
collection based on land measurement and productivity, ensuring fairness and efficiency. This system not only
increased the empire's revenues but also fostered agricultural growth and stability.

Military Campaigns and Expansions

The military campaigns and expansions under Akbar the Great were instrumental in establishing the Mughal Empire
as a formidable power in South Asia. His strategic conquests expanded the empire's boundaries significantly. Key
victories, such as the Battle of Panipat and the conquest of Gujarat and Bengal, not only consolidated his rule but
also facilitated trade and cultural exchanges that enriched the empire.

Conquest of Gujrat: Bahadur Shah II Campaign against Rajputs: Rajput kingdoms

Mewar Mixed outcomes; significant victories
Akbar victorious Integrated Rajput states into the empire .
Secured western trade routes and resources .

Campaign against Bengal:

Bengali chiefs
Victory for Akbar
Expanded Mughal influence in eastern India.

Promotion of Religious Harmony

Among Akbar the Great's most enduring legacies is his unwavering commitment to promoting religious harmony.
Recognizing the diversity of his empire, he espoused a policy of religious tolerance, encouraging dialogue and
understanding among different religious communities. His establishment of the Din-i-Ilahi, a syncretic religion,
though short-lived, underscored his efforts to bridge the religious divide and foster a spirit of unity within his
empire.

Why Akbar is called the Great?

Akbar the Great is celebrated for his remarkable achievements in establishing the Mughal Empire as a dominant
force in the Indian subcontinent. His visionary leadership, innovative contributions to society and governance,
and the enduring legacy he left behind have firmly entrenched his status as one of the greatest rulers in Indian
history.

The military, administrative, justice, public health, education and economic achievements of Emperor
Jahangir; the development of trade with the English under Emperor Jahangir .

Who was Jahangir?

Jahangir, also recognized as Nur-ud-Din Muhammad Salim, held the position of the fourth Mughal emperor from
1605 until his passing in 1627.

Administration
During his rule, Jahangir made important changes to the way the government worked. Let's explore how he
improved administration in simple terms.
Mughal Emperor Jahangir divided the empire into smaller parts and put trustworthy people in charge. These
people were called subahdars and they helped him govern different regions. This made it easier to manage the
country.
Jahangir knew it was important to have enough money for the government. He made sure the tax collectors
were honest and didn't steal money. He also checked their records to make sure everything was fair.
Jahangir cared about justice. He set up special courts with judges who were fair and honest. These judges solved
problems and made sure everyone followed the law. This helped people feel safe and secure.
Jahangir wanted people to be able to travel easily and trade goods. He built better roads, bridges, and
waterways to connect different parts of the empire. This made it easier for people to move around and do
business.
Jahangir loved art and wanted to promote it. He encouraged artists, painters, poets, and musicians to showcase
their talents. His court became a hub of creativity and excellence in the arts.
Jahangir was smart in dealing with other countries. He made alliances and agreements to keep peace and
protect his empire. He also married people from other royal families to strengthen relationships.
Jahangir wanted to stay informed about what was happening in his empire. He set up a system of post offices
and couriers to send messages quickly. This helped him make decisions faster and govern better.
Jahangir wanted farmers to do well. He taught them better ways to farm and grow crops. He made sure they
had what they needed to be successful. This helped the country have enough food and a strong economy.
Jahangir was a great leader who improved the way the government worked. He divided the empire into smaller
parts, collected taxes fairly, made fair decisions, treated people equally, built roads and bridges, supported art
and culture, made friends with other countries, sent messages quickly, and helped farmers. His rule brought
peace and progress to the Mughal Empire.

Culture: Jahangir was a powerful emperor of India who lived from 1605 to 1627. During his rule, there was a lot
of excitement and creativity in the culture of India. People made beautiful artwork, buildings, music, and writing.
Let's learn more about the cultural achievements of this time.

Art and Architecture: Jahangir loved art and buildings. He supported many talented artists and architects. They
created magnificent palaces, gardens, and mosques. These buildings had amazing designs and patterns, making
them look very grand and beautiful. Jahangir's grand mosque at Lahore, which is covered in enamelled tiles, is a
good example of Persian design.

1. Jahangir built Shalimar and Nishant Gardens in Srinagar. 2. He completed the tomb of Akbar at Sikandara 3.
Jahangir introduced the vigorous use of Marble instead of red sandstone and use of Pietradura for decorative
purposes. Nurjahan built Itimad-ud-daula/Mirza Ghiyas Beg’s Marble tomb at Agra 4. He built Moti Masjid at
Lahore and his own mausoleum at Shahdara.

Period of Jahangir is considered as the Golden Age of Mughal Painting. Jahangir himself was a painter.

Literature: Jahangir encouraged writers and poets to create amazing stories and poems. They wrote in Persian
and other languages. Jahangir himself was a poet and wrote under the name "Nuruddin Muhammad Jahangir."
He even wrote a book about his life called "Tuzk-e-Jahangiri." Many wonderful works of literature were made
during this time.

Religious Tolerance: Jahangir believed in living peacefully and respecting everyone's religion. He allowed people
of different faiths to practice their beliefs freely. Hindu and Muslim scholars thrived during this time, sharing
their ideas and learning from each other.

Wars and Conquests of Jahangir

 Jahangir, the fourth Mughal emperor, witnessed wars and conquests during his reign from 1605 to 1627.
 His ascension to the throne followed a period of conflict with his own son, Prince Khusrau.
 Jahangir faced a rebellion led by Khusrau, resulting in battles for succession.
 The Mughals achieved significant victories, including the capture of Ahmednagar in 1600.
 Jahangir's rule also saw conflicts with the Rajput states, particularly Mewar and Marwar.
 His conquests were marked by territorial expansion and consolidation of Mughal authority.

Achievements of Jahangir

Jahangir, known for his patronage of the arts and generosity to his numerous wives, was also a skilled military
leader.
Under Akbar's rule, Jahangir fought and captured Orchha, constructing the Jahangir Mahal to commemorate his
triumph.
During his reign, he dispatched the Mughal army to quell Koli plunderers in Gujarat.
Jahangir initiated a campaign against Portuguese forces after they seized a ship carrying his mother to Mecca.
Despite being a conqueror, Jahangir was generally tolerant of different religions and allowed religious freedom
in his empire.
He met with Hindu leaders and issued edicts against forced conversions to Islam, but he suppressed Jains and
executed Guru Arjan Dev.
Jahangir, a builder as well, oversaw the construction of new cities, including Jahangir Nagar (later Dhaka), the
capital of the Mughal province of Bengal .

The development of trade with the English under Emperor Jahangir .

In 1609, Jahangir received William Hawkins, an envoy of King James I of England, who reached India to obtain
trade concession.

In 1615, Sir Thomas Roe reached the court of Jahangir as the first ambassador of James I of England in the court
of Jahangir. As a result of his efforts, first English factory was established at Surat in Gujarat.

1. How did Jahangir ensure fairness and justice in his government?

2. What types of artistic contributions did Jahangir support during his reign?
3. What were some significant conquests achieved during Jahangir's reign, and how did they impact the
Mughal Empire?
4. What are achievements of Jahangir?