Decline of Mughal Empire and Early British Rule

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the decline of the Mughal Empire and the early British rule, based on the lecture notes.

Mughal Empire

A powerful empire ruled by Muslims over a vast area of the Indian subcontinent from 1526 onwards.

Aurangzeb

The last effective Mughal emperor, credited with both strengthening the empire and also contributing to its decline.

Succession Dispute

Conflict that arises after a ruler's death, primarily due to the lack of a clear law of succession.

Lavish Lifestyle

The tendency of Mughal rulers to indulge in luxuries, leading to neglect of governance.

Jizya Tax

A tax imposed on non-Muslims in the Mughal Empire by Aurangzeb, often leading to social unrest.

Marathas

A powerful group of Hindu warriors who became significant rivals to the Mughal Empire and played a role in its decline.

Nadir Shah

Persian ruler who invaded India in 1738 and plundered significant wealth from the Mughal Empire.

Industrial Revolution

A period of industrial growth in Europe that enabled the British to strengthen their control in India through military and technological superiority.

Two Nation Theory

The idea proposed by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan that Hindus and Muslims in India are two distinct nations with different cultures and religions.

Urdu

The national language of Pakistan, which has historical significance and was widely used during the Mughal period.