Rise of Regional Powers | Indian Modern History | UPSC | Lecture - 2 | GS History by Aadesh Singh
GS History for UPSC by StudyIQ IAS・13 minutes read
The decline of the Mughal Empire led to the rise of regional powers like Bengal, Awadh, Hyderabad, Mysore, and the Maratha Kingdoms in the 18th century, eventually paving the way for British supremacy in India. These regional powers gained independence or semi-independence, with leaders like Nizamuddin, Saadat Khan Barhan Al Mulk, and Hyder Ali establishing their own authority and implementing various reforms to govern their territories.
Insights
- The decline of the Mughal Empire under Aurangzeb led to the emergence of powerful regional forces like Hyderabad, Karnataka, Bengal, Awadh, Mysore, and Maratha Kingdoms, each establishing varying degrees of independence and implementing unique administrative policies.
- The rise of regional powers post-Mughal Empire, categorized based on their Succession Status, New Status, and Independence Status, paved the way for British supremacy in India as they engaged with and eventually overcame these diverse political entities, setting the stage for their future involvement in Indian politics.
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Recent questions
What led to the decline of the Mughal Empire?
The decline of the Mughal Empire began during Aurangzeb's reign due to various factors such as economic instability, administrative inefficiency, and religious intolerance. These issues weakened the central authority of the empire, allowing local and regional political forces to rise in the late 17th century.
How did the British establish supremacy in India?
The British established supremacy in India by strategically facing and defeating the regional powers that emerged post the decline of the Mughal Empire. Through a combination of military conquests, alliances with local rulers, and economic dominance, the British gradually expanded their influence and control over different regions in India.
Who founded the Hyderabad State and how did they rule?
Hyderabad State was founded by Nizamuddin in 1724, who ruled with independence-like authority by implementing effective policies and establishing an orderly rule. Nizamuddin's leadership allowed Hyderabad to maintain a degree of autonomy and stability in the midst of the changing political landscape of the time.
What measures did Awadh take to establish independence?
Awadh's independence was established by Saadat Khan Barhan Al Mulk, who implemented reforms such as improving revenue settlements and protecting peasants from exploitation by zamindars. These measures helped Awadh assert its independence and create a more stable and equitable society for its people.
How did Mysore maintain independence and modernize?
Mysore, under leaders like Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, maintained independence by implementing Western military training, introducing modern navy and coinage systems, and resisting external influences. Their efforts to modernize and strengthen Mysore's military capabilities allowed the region to remain independent amidst the changing political dynamics of the time.
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Summary
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Rise of Regional Powers Post-Mughal Empire
- Decline of the Mughal Empire began during Aurangzeb's reign, leading to the rise of local and regional political forces in the late 17th century.
- In the 18th century, Bengal, Awadh, Hyderabad, Mysore, and Maratha Kingdoms emerged as independent or semi-independent powers after the decline of the Mughal Empire.
- The British established supremacy in India by facing these regional powers that emerged post-Mughal Empire.
- Regional powers post-Mughal Empire were classified into three categories: Succession Status, New Status, and Independence Status.
- Hyderabad State was founded by Nizamuddin in 1724, who ruled with independence-like authority, implementing policies and establishing an orderly rule.
- Karnataka region gained independence from Deccan's influence, with the Deputy Governor establishing himself as Nawab of Karnataka.
- Bengal became virtually independent under Murshid Quli Khan and Ali Vardi, implementing revenue farming and agricultural loans for poor cultivators.
- Awadh's independence was established by Saadat Khan Barhan Al Mulk, who improved revenue settlements and protected peasants from zamindars.
- Mysore, under Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, maintained independence, implemented Western military training, and introduced modern navy and coinage systems.
- Marthanda Varma established the Travancore Kingdom in Kerala, organizing a strong army, irrigation works, and promoting Malayalam literature.
18:32
Rise of Maratha Power in India
- The Peshwa gained significant power, acting as the Maratha umpire and assisting the Syed Brothers in overthrowing Farrukh Siyar, revealing the weakness of the Mughal umpires. Balaji Vishwanath's son, Bajirao One, succeeded him in 1720, leading campaigns against the Mughal umpires and expanding Maratha territories. By 1740, under Bajirao's leadership, the Marathas had annexed Malwa, Gujarat, and parts of Bundelkhand, with other Maratha families coming under his rule. The decline of the Mughal umpire led to the rise of regional powers, with the British gradually becoming involved in Indian politics, setting the stage for future conflicts.
