⚡ Modern History – Flashcards
In what year did Emperor Aurangzeb die, marking the definitive onset of the Mughal Empire's decline?
Aurangzeb died in 1707.
What immediate political crisis was triggered by Aurangzeb's death in 1707?
A bitter war of succession erupted among his three sons, draining the empire's already weakened resources. This recurring conflict was caused by the absence of a definitive law of primogeniture.
Who emerged victorious in the succession war following Aurangzeb's death to become the next Mughal Emperor?
His eldest son, Prince Muazzam, ascended the throne under the title Bahadur Shah I. He secured the throne by defeating and killing his brothers, Muhammad Azam and Kam Bakhsh.
What major administrative breakdown, inherited from Aurangzeb's reign, plagued his immediate successors?
The Jagirdari Crisis, caused by a severe shortage of profitable land grants (jagirs) for an expanding nobility. This scarcity fueled intense factional competition and undermined the Mughal administrative framework.
How did Aurangzeb's prolonged Deccan campaigns structurally weaken the empire inherited by his successors?
The continuous warfare drained the imperial treasury, devastating trade and agriculture. The financial strain was so severe that Aurangzeb even had to melt down royal treasures.
What geopolitical vacuum was created by the weakening of central Mughal authority after 1707?
The decline of central control allowed ambitious nobles and provincial governors to establish independent regional states. This fragmentation gave rise to autonomous powers like Hyderabad, Awadh, and Bengal.
How did Aurangzeb's religious orthodoxy directly threaten the empire's stability post-1707?
His strict policies alienated crucial traditional allies like the Rajputs and led to widespread discontent. It also provoked sustained armed rebellions from groups like the Marathas, Sikhs, and Jats.
What derisive title was given to Aurangzeb's successor, Bahadur Shah I, reflecting the weakening of central imperial command?
He was called 'Shah-i-Bekhabar' (The Heedless King) by Khafi Khan. This was due to his desperate policy of appeasing various factions through the reckless distribution of titles and high mansabs.