Q 3 The Origin and Nature of the Mughal Empire Under Akbar

These flashcards cover the key concepts, events, and significance of the Mughal Empire under Akbar, aiding in understanding the origin and transformation of the empire.

What was the key transformation of the Mughal Empire under Akbar's rule?

The Mughal Empire transformed from a fragile princely dominion into a centralized, multi-ethnic, pan-Indian empire.

What were the foundations of the Mughal Empire before Akbar?

The Mughal dynasty was of Timurid and Chagatai Turkic–Mongol descent with legitimacy drawn from Timur and Genghis Khan.

This dual heritage lent prestige and military tradition but also encouraged a highly aristocratic, martial political culture

What significant victories did Babur achieve to establish the Mughal presence?

Babur's victories at Panipat (1526) and Khanwa (1527) established the Mughal presence in the Indo-Gangetic plains.

Babur's victory at the First Battle of Panipat in 1526 against Ibrahim Lodi's much larger Delhi Sultanate army marked the beginning of Mughal rule in India, established through superior tactics, including the innovative use of gunpowder artillery and the flanking maneuvers of Tulghuma, which devastated Lodi's forces, ended the Delhi Sultanate, and paved the way for the Mughal Empire

What challenges did Humayun face during his reign?

Humayun faced instability, Afghan resistance, and exile during his reign.

How did Akbar consolidate power through military expansion?

Akbar expanded Mughal power through conquests and the incorporation of Rajput kingdoms via diplomacy and intermarriage. This created a territorially integrated empire stretching across northern India.

What was the Mansabdari System implemented by Akbar?

The Mansabdari System ranked officials using numerical mansabs which determined their military obligations, salary, and social status.

Reduced aristocratic factionalism and created a meritocratic, service-based nobility.

What was the significance of the Zabt system in Akbar's revenue system?

The Zabt system fixed revenue based on scientifically measured land productivity and strengthened the centralized economy. Revenue paid in cash, strengthening the centralized economy.

What was the Policy of Sulh-i Kull and its impact on the Mughal Empire?

The Policy of Sulh-i Kull promoted religious tolerance and incorporated Hindus into the highest nobility, creating a pluralistic and inclusive state.

What were Akbar's contributions to cultural and intellectual syncretism?

Akbar promoted a synthesis of Indian, Persian, and Central Asian cultures. Akbar patronized art, literature, and established Ibadat Khana for interfaith dialogues, promoting a distinct Indo-Persian court culture.

How did Akbar's relationship with the Rajputs affect the Mughal Empire?

Akbar's cooperation with the Rajputs created a loyal aristocracy and consolidated Mughal authority in previously hostile areas.

What ideal did Akbar's kingship represent?

Akbar’s kingship evolved into the Padshah ideal, emphasizing justice, order, and the welfare of subjects.

What is the significance of Akbar's reign in shaping the Mughal Empire?

Akbar transformed a fragile empire into one of the largest and most stable empires in pre-modern history, laying foundations for future rulers.

What elements defined Akbar's model of governance?

Akbar's governance was bureaucratic, inclusive, cosmopolitan, and left a lasting impact on South Asian history.

What did the Empire look like when Akbar inherited it?

When Akbar ascended the throne at age 13, the so-called Mughal “empire” was politically insecure, territorially restricted, and threatened by Afghan and Rajput powers.