RBSE Solutions Class 10 Social Science Chapter 2 Struggle Period of India (1206 A.D to 1757 A.D)

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. What is the other name of the Slave Dynasty?
Answer: The Slave Dynasty is also known by two other names: the Yamini Dynasty or the Ilbari Dynasty. These names refer to the origins of its rulers.
In simple words: The Slave Dynasty has other names, like Yamini or Ilbari.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember both alternative names, Yamini and Ilbari, as they are key historical identifiers for the Slave Dynasty.

Question 2. At what post Razia Sultan appointed Yakut?
Answer: Razia Sultan appointed Yakut to the position of Amir Ahkur. This important role meant he was the head of the stable, managing all the horses and cavalry.
In simple words: Razia Sultan made Yakut the head of her stable, called Amir Ahkur.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering questions about historical appointments, clearly state the title and, if possible, its meaning or significance.

Question 3. Who was the ruler who implemented the policy of Iron and Blood?
Answer: Balban was the ruler known for implementing the 'policy of Iron and Blood'. This policy involved using strict and severe methods to maintain order and suppress enemies without mercy.
In simple words: Balban was the ruler who used a very tough 'Iron and Blood' policy.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate key policies with their respective rulers to remember historical contributions easily.

Question 4. Who translated Babarnama in Persian (Parsi)?
Answer: Abdur Rahim Khanakhana translated the book 'Babarnama' into Persian, which is also known as Parsi. This translation made Babur's memoirs accessible to a wider audience in the Mughal court.
In simple words: Abdur Rahim Khanakhana changed Babarnama from Turkish to Persian.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note important literary contributions and their translators, as they often reflect cultural exchanges of the period.

Question 5. Which ruler built the Grand Trunk Road?
Answer: Sher Shah Suri was the ruler responsible for building the Grand Trunk Road, a major ancient road network. This road was important for trade and travel across a vast region, connecting different parts of his empire.
In simple words: Sher Shah Suri built the Grand Trunk Road.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify significant infrastructure projects with the rulers who initiated them, as they indicate administrative prowess.

Question 7. Which title was retended by Hemu?
Answer: Hemu was known for retaining the significant title of 'Raja Vikramjeet'. This title traditionally signified a powerful and victorious king, reflecting his military successes.
In simple words: Hemu was called 'Raja Vikramjeet'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note key titles and their meanings, as they often highlight the status or achievements of historical figures.

Question 8. When was world famous battle of Haldi Ghati held?
Answer: The famous Battle of Haldighati took place in the year 1576 A.D. This battle was a significant event in Indian history, fought between the forces of Maharana Pratap and the Mughal Empire.
In simple words: The Battle of Haldighati happened in 1576 A.D.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the exact year for major battles, as dates are crucial in history questions.

Question 9. Which religion was propounded by the Akbar?
Answer: Emperor Akbar introduced a new syncretic religion known as Din-e-Ilahi. This religion aimed to combine the best aspects of various faiths to promote unity and peace.
In simple words: Akbar started a new religion called Din-e-Ilahi.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that Din-e-Ilahi was a philosophical system, not a traditional religion with a strict doctrine, emphasizing moral conduct.

Question 10. Who was the founder of the Bahamani Kingdom?
Answer: The Bahamani Kingdom was founded by Hasan, also known as Zafar Shah. He was an officer under Muhammad Tughlaq before establishing his own independent kingdom in the Deccan region.
In simple words: Hasan, or Zafar Shah, who was an officer for Muhammad Tughlaq, started the Bahamani Kingdom.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect founders with their respective kingdoms to recall their origins and initial leadership.

Question 11. Which Guru of Sikhs built Akal Takht?
Answer: Guru Hargobind, the son of Guru Arjan Dev, was the Sikh Guru who constructed the Akal Takht. The Akal Takht is a significant center of authority and justice for Sikhs, symbolizing political sovereignty.
In simple words: Guru Hargobind, the son of Guru Arjan Dev, built the Akal Takht.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize the Akal Takht as a key institution in Sikh history, symbolizing temporal power alongside spiritual authority.

Question 12. Where was coronation of Shivaji done?
Answer: The coronation ceremony of Chhatrapati Shivaji took place at Raj Garh Fort. This event marked his formal declaration as an independent Maratha ruler, establishing his sovereignty.
In simple words: Shivaji's coronation happened at Raj Garh Fort.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know the location of important historical events like coronations, as they often have symbolic significance.

Question 13. Hammir Chauhan was the ruler of which place?
Answer: Hammir Chauhan was the ruler of Ranthambhore. He was a brave Rajput king known for his resistance against invasions and his strong defense of his fort.
In simple words: Hammir Chauhan ruled Ranthambhore.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link famous rulers with their territories or forts to remember their domain of influence.

Struggle Period of India (1206 A.D to 1757 A.D) RBSE Class 10 Social Science Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Name the five plans of Muhammad Tuglaq?
Answer: According to the historian Barauni, Sultan Muhammad Tughlaq had five main plans. These included:
(a) Increasing taxes in the fertile Doab region.
(b) Shifting his capital to Devgiri (later named Daulatabad).
(c) Introducing a new symbolic currency.
(d) Planning an attack on Khurasan.
(e) Leading a military campaign towards Carachil.
In simple words: Muhammad Tughlaq had five big plans: raise taxes in doab, move his capital to Devgiri, use new symbolic coins, attack Khurasan, and campaign in Carachil.

🎯 Exam Tip: List Tughlaq's experiments and state whether they were successful or not, as he is often studied for his ambitious but flawed policies.

Question 2. Tell about 'Sikandri Gaj' (Yard).
Answer: 'Sikandari Gaj' was a measurement unit introduced by Sikandar Shah to correctly determine land revenue. This yard-length measurement was typically 30 units (often considered inches or a similar measure) and was widely used for a long time. It helped standardize land assessment for taxation, making revenue collection more efficient.
In simple words: Sikandar Shah introduced 'Sikandari Gaj', a 30-unit yard, to measure land for taxes. This became a common measurement for a long time.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the purpose of such measurements – standardization of land revenue – to show understanding of administrative reforms.

Question 3. Who gave the title of Sher Khan to Farid and why?
Answer: Farid, the son of Hasan Khan and a landlord in Sasaram (Bihar), was given the title 'Sher Khan'. He earned this title from Bahar Khan, the ruler of South Bihar, because he bravely killed a tiger without using any weapons. This act of courage gained him much respect and a new identity.
In simple words: Bahar Khan, the ruler of South Bihar, called Farid "Sher Khan" because Farid killed a tiger without any weapons.

🎯 Exam Tip: For titles, always mention who gave the title and the specific reason behind it, as these details are crucial.

Question 4. Give the Introduction of Vijayanagar Empire.
Answer: The Vijayanagar Empire was founded by Harihara and Bukka, two of Sanga's five sons, on the northern bank of the Tungabhadra River. Initially, they served as chieftains (Samantas) under the Kakatiyas of Warangal and later became ministers in Kampili, modern-day Karnataka. Muhammad Tughlaq had imprisoned them, but they were later freed with the help of Guru Vidyaranya. They then went on to establish one of South India's most powerful empires, known for its rich culture and strong defense.
In simple words: Harihara and Bukka started the Vijayanagar Empire by the Tungabhadra River. They were first chieftains, then ministers, and after being freed by Tughlaq, they founded their own empire.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing an empire's introduction, include its founders, location, and key initial events that led to its establishment.

Question 6. Who was Banda Bairagi?
Answer: Banda Bairagi, whose real name was Madho Das, was born in 1670 into a Rajput family. He lived in an ashram by the Godavari River. During a journey south, he met Guru Gobind Singh and declared himself Banda Bairagi, becoming a devoted follower and warrior for the Sikh cause. He later led the Sikh rebellion against the Mughals.
In simple words: Banda Bairagi, originally Madho Das, was born in 1670. He lived by the Godavari River and later became a follower of Guru Gobind Singh, calling himself Banda Bairagi.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the transformation of individuals like Banda Bairagi, from a hermit to a warrior, and their role in historical movements.

Struggle Period of India (1206 A.D to 1757 A.D) Class 10 Social Science RBSE Solutions Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Write about the administration of Delhi Sultanate.
Answer: The Delhi Sultanate's administration was centered around the Sultan, a title first used by Turkish rulers like Mahmud Ghaznavi. The Sultan held complete authority over politics, religion, and justice, though he was expected to heed the advice of the Ulema (religious scholars). Powerful nobles, called Amirs (divided into Turkish and non-Turkish groups), also influenced the Sultan. During Iltutmish's rule, a group of forty powerful Amirs formed the 'Chehalgani,' whose influence varied based on their administrative skills.
The Central Administrative System, or Mujlis-e-khalwat, functioned like a council of ministers and was built on four main pillars, including:
(a) Wazir (Prime Minister or chief minister)
(b) Arije Mumalik (Minister of the army)
Jalaluddin Khilji established the 'Dewane Waqoof' department, and Alauddin Khilji created the 'Diwane Mustakhraj,' both under the finance department. Muhammad Tughlaq later created the 'Diwan-e-Amir-Kohi' to improve agriculture.
The 'Dewane Insha' managed correspondence, while 'Diwane Riyasat' acted as the foreign ministry. The 'Sadra' headed the religious department, which had a separate treasury for collecting wealth like 'Zakat'. Key judicial and intelligence departments included 'Kazi-ul-kujat' (Law) and 'Barid-e-Mumalik' (information departments).
Six important officials managed the court and palace, including:
1. Wakir-e-dar (Chief of the royal household)
2. Barbak (Officer for ceremonial presentation)
3. Amir-e-Hajib (Chamberlain)
4. Amir-e-Shikar (Officer for royal hunts)
5. Amir Majlis (Officer for royal assemblies)
6. Sir-e-Jahandar (Royal bodyguard chief)
The Sultanate period was characterized by military, religious, and monarchical rule. Plundered war goods were called 'Khams'. Regional administration mirrored the central system, with provinces headed by a 'Wali' or 'Nazim' appointed by the Sultan. The 'Shik' was the revenue officer of the province, ensuring tax collection.
In simple words: Delhi Sultanate was ruled by a Sultan, who had all power. Nobles called Amirs (Turkish and non-Turkish) also had a say. A group of forty Amirs was called 'Chehalgani'. The government had a council of ministers, with the Wazir and Arije Mumalik as key leaders. They had departments for finance, agriculture, post, religion, and justice. Six workers managed the court. Regional areas had Walis and Nazims as heads, and Khams was the war booty.

🎯 Exam Tip: Break down the administration into central and provincial levels, listing key officials and their departments for a comprehensive answer.

Question 2. Explain the contribution of Sawai Jai Singh.
Answer: Sawai Jai Singh made significant contributions in various fields:
(i) In 1725, he created a detailed astronomical table (Sarani) to accurately calculate the speed of celestial bodies (Nakshatras). This showed his keen interest in astronomy.
(ii) He authored an important astrological text titled 'Jai Singh Karika', showcasing his deep knowledge in the subject. This book helped in standardizing astronomical calculations.
(iii) He established five observatories (Vaidhshalas) across India, located in Jaipur, Delhi, Mathura, Banaras, and Ujjain, specifically for astronomical studies. The Jaipur observatory, known as Jantar Mantar, is the largest and was recognized as a World Heritage site in July 2010. Jai Singh also founded the city of Jaipur, making it the capital of the Kachwaha Dynasty instead of Amer. Initially, the area had a 'Haudi of Shikar' (hunting lodge), which was transformed into 'Badal Mahal' before the construction of Jaipur began. He was an enlightened ruler who promoted scientific and urban development, making Jaipur a well-planned city.
In simple words: Sawai Jai Singh did many things. He made a table to measure star speeds and wrote a book on astrology called 'Jai Singh Karika'. He built five observatories in India, with the one in Jaipur being the largest. He also founded Jaipur city and made it his capital.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on specific achievements, such as astronomical tables, written works, and city planning, to illustrate his diverse contributions.

Question. Give the contribution of Shivaji in the emergency of Marathas.
Answer: Chhatrapati Shivaji, born on April 20, 1627, at Shivner Fort, was the son of Jijabai and Shahaji Bhonsle. Raised by his guardian Dadaji Kondev and inspired by Guru Samarth Swami Ram Das, Shivaji received training in military skills and administration. At just 12, in 1646, he had gathered a group of Mawle youths and started taking control of forts near Poona, including Rajgarh, Chakan, Baramati, Indrapur, Sinhagad, and Purandar. In 1656, he made Rajgarh his capital after capturing Kalyan and Javli forts.
His expansion policies led to a conflict with Bijapur, whose general Afzal Khan he killed in 1659. Later, Aurangzeb sent Shaista Khan to control Shivaji, but Shivaji launched a surprise night attack, forcing Shaista Khan to flee. In 1664, Shivaji plundered Surat. Subsequently, Aurangzeb dispatched Mirza Raja Jai Singh, leading to the Treaty of Purandar in 1665. One key provision of this treaty was that Shivaji would serve as a Mughal Subedar in the Deccan.
After presenting himself at the Mughal court, he was placed under house arrest but cleverly escaped with his son Sambhaji in 1660. Aurangzeb later recognized him with the title of 'king' and granted him the Jagir of Berar. By 1670, Shivaji had recaptured all his forts and collected 'Chauth' (tax) from Mughal territories. In 1674, he was crowned 'Chhatrapati' at Rajgarh Fort, formally establishing his independent Hindu Swarajya. He passed away in 1680, by which time his Maratha empire stretched across Western Karnataka, from Belgaum to the Tungabhadra River. Shivaji successfully resisted the Mughals, Bijapur Sultanate, Portuguese, and Abyssinian pirates, solidifying Maratha power in South India. His vision laid the foundation for a strong Maratha confederacy.
In simple words: Chhatrapati Shivaji, born in 1627, built the Maratha Empire. He was inspired by his mother and Guru. He captured many forts and challenged powerful rulers like Aurangzeb. He fought the Bijapur Sultanate and even plundered Surat. After escaping Mughal arrest, he became a king and expanded his rule across South India, creating a strong independent kingdom.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize Shivaji's strategic fort captures, encounters with major powers (Bijapur, Mughals), and his establishment of independent Maratha rule with the title 'Chhatrapati'.

Struggle Period of India (1206 A.D to 1757 A.D) RBSE Solutions Class 10 Social Science Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Where did Arabs attack first at the time of Amar Khalifa in 636 A.D.?
Answer: The Arabs first launched an attack on Thane in Maharashtra in 636 A.D., during the time of Caliph Umar (Amar Khalifa). This marked an early encounter between Arab forces and the Indian subcontinent, though it was not a sustained conquest.
In simple words: Arabs first attacked Thane in Maharashtra in 636 A.D., when Amar Khalifa was in charge.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the first point of contact for foreign invasions, as it marks the beginning of new historical interactions.

Question 2. Name the two Kashmiri royal rulers with whom Mahmud Gaznavi had to face a fearce struggle.
Answer: Mahmud Ghaznavi faced fierce resistance from two powerful Kashmiri royal rulers: Jaipal and his son Anand Pal. Their struggle highlights the strong opposition Ghaznavi encountered in India, particularly from the Shahi dynasty.
In simple words: Mahmud Ghaznavi fought very hard against two Kashmiri kings, Jaipal and Anand Pal.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the names of rulers who resisted major invaders, showing pockets of strong defense.

Question 4. Which principle of Jalaluddin Khilji is famous?
Answer: Jalaluddin Khilji was known for his principle of 'State's rule'. This implied a more lenient and benevolent approach to governance, focusing on welfare and less on harsh punishments compared to his predecessors. He believed in winning people's hearts rather than ruling through fear.
In simple words: Jalaluddin Khilji was known for his 'State's rule' principle, which meant a kinder and softer way of governing.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate Jalaluddin Khilji's lenient approach from the more aggressive policies of subsequent rulers like Alauddin Khilji.

Question 5. Who was Malik Kafoor?
Answer: Malik Kafur was a prominent military commander who converted to Islam. He served as a general under Alauddin Khalji and was known for his successful campaigns in South India, greatly expanding the Sultanate's reach.
In simple words: Malik Kafur was a military leader under Alauddin Khalji who changed to Islam.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize Malik Kafur as a key figure in Alauddin Khilji's military expansion, especially towards the Deccan region.

Question 6. By which titles Amir Khusrao had given the Khajanul Phutuh to Allauddin Khilji?
Answer: In his work 'Khazain-ul-Futuh', Amir Khusrau bestowed the titles "Sultan of the world" and "Shepherd of the subject" upon Alauddin Khilji. These titles reflected Khusrau's high regard for the Sultan's power and leadership, praising his conquests and benevolent rule.
In simple words: Amir Khusrau called Alauddin Khilji "Sultan of the world" and "Shepherd of the subject" in his book 'Khazain-ul-Futuh'.

🎯 Exam Tip: Link important historical texts with their authors and the significant figures they describe.

Question 7. Which four taxes were kept by the Pheroz Shah Tuglak?
Answer: The four taxes introduced by Firoz Shah Tughlaq were:
(a) Kharaj (land tax)
(b) Jakat (Zakat, a tax on wealth for Muslims)
(c) Khums (one-fifth of the war booty)
(d) Jazia (Jizya, a tax on non-Muslims)
He focused on establishing a more structured tax system, aligning with Islamic law.
In simple words: Firoz Shah Tughlaq had four main taxes: Kharaj (land tax), Zakat (for Muslims), Khums (war share), and Jizya (for non-Muslims).

🎯 Exam Tip: Be able to name and briefly explain each of the four main taxes introduced by Firoz Shah Tughlaq, as they were fundamental to his revenue policy.

Question 8. What do you know about Chahalgani?
Answer: The Chahalgani was a powerful group of forty Turkic nobles, or Amirs, established during the reign of Sultan Iltutmish. This council played a significant role in the administration and political affairs of the Delhi Sultanate, often influencing the Sultan's decisions.
In simple words: During Sultan Iltutmish's rule, a group of forty powerful nobles was known as the Chahalgani.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the 'Chahalgani' as an example of powerful nobility influencing the Sultanate, a common feature in many medieval empires.

Question 9. Who was the founder of Mughal empire in India?
Answer: Babur was the founder of the Mughal Empire in India. He established this powerful empire after his victory in the First Battle of Panipat in 1526, marking a new era in Indian history.
In simple words: Babur started the Mughal Empire in India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly identify Babur as the founder and mention the First Battle of Panipat as the key event marking the empire's beginning.

Question 11. Which new city was established by the Humayun?
Answer: Humayun established a new city named Din-Panah. This city was intended to be a capital that reflected his vision of a pious and well-governed state, although its construction was interrupted by his exile.
In simple words: Humayun built a new city called Din-Panah.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize Din-Panah as an example of Mughal urban planning and the ambitions of its emperors.

Question 12. Who was the founder of Suri empire?
Answer: The Suri Empire was founded by Farid, also known as Sher Khan. He was the son of Hasan Khan and a powerful landlord (zamindar) from Sasaram in Bihar, under the Jaunpur district. His rise to power challenged the Mughal rule, leading to Humayun's temporary exile.
In simple words: Farid, or Sher Khan, who was a landlord in Bihar, founded the Suri Empire.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember Sher Shah Suri not just as a founder, but also for his administrative reforms and the temporary displacement of Mughal rule.

Question 13. Where-was Akbar born?
Answer: Emperor Akbar was born in the Fort of Amarkot, which is located in present-day Pakistan, in the year 1542 A.D. This event took place during his father Humayun's exile, a challenging time for the family.
In simple words: Akbar was born in Amarkot Fort in Pakistan in 1542 A.D.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing Akbar's birthplace highlights the early struggles of Humayun's reign and Akbar's unusual beginning as a prince.

Question 14. Who was Barham Khan?
Answer: Bairam Khan was an influential general and statesman who served as the guardian and chief regent for Emperor Akbar during his early reign. He represented the Mughal authority and played a crucial role in consolidating the empire during Akbar's minority.
In simple words: Bairam Khan was Akbar's guardian and a strong leader for the Mughals.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize Bairam Khan's pivotal role in stabilizing the Mughal Empire after Humayun's death and guiding young Akbar.

Question 15. Name the childhood name of Shahjahan.
Answer: The childhood name of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan was Khurram. He was known by this name before he ascended to the throne and adopted the regnal name Shah Jahan.
In simple words: Shah Jahan's childhood name was Khurram.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the birth names and regnal names of important rulers, as they often have specific historical meanings.

Struggle Period of India (1206 A.D to 1757 A.D) RBSE Class 10 Social Science Solutions Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Write the main functions of Balban and his state's rule principle.
Answer: Balban's principle of state rule was based on the belief that the king was a representative of God on Earth. He adopted a stern approach to governance, emphasizing justice and absolute authority. His main functions included:
1. Maintaining law and order throughout the kingdom to ensure stability and security.
2. Suppressing dacoits (robbers) and quelling revolts by Zamindars (landlords) to consolidate central power and prevent chaos.
He believed that a strong, disciplined ruler was essential for the survival and prosperity of the state.
In simple words: Balban believed the king was God's representative. His main jobs were to keep law and order and stop robberies and revolts by landlords.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight Balban's 'Divine Right of Kings' theory and his two-pronged approach of maintaining internal order and suppressing rebellions.

Question 2. Discuss the Allauddin's reforms.
Answer: Alauddin Khilji implemented several important reforms in his administration. He improved intelligence networks, postal services, and provincial governance. His most significant reform was strict market control, for which he appointed specialized officers like:
1. Dewan-e-Riyasat (Controller of Business)
2. Shahna or Dand Adhikari (Market Superintendent)
3. Muhatsib (Inspector of public morals and weights)
4. Barid-e-Mumalik (Secret intelligence officer)
His economic reforms were crucial for maintaining a large army. The Sarai-e-Adl, a specific market for local and foreign goods, was established. Alauddin was notable for being the first ruler to pay his soldiers in cash. In 1303, he also constructed the Siri Fort, also known as Allai Fort or Kushk-e-Siri, which featured seven gates, reinforcing Delhi's defenses.
In simple words: Alauddin Khilji changed many things. He fixed market prices and made new officers like the market controller and secret officer. He was the first to pay soldiers in cash. He also built Siri Fort, which had seven gates.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing Alauddin's reforms, focus on market control, military organization, and the roles of his key administrators, as these were his most impactful changes.

Question 3. Write about the contribution of Firoz Shah Tuglak.
Answer: Firoz Shah Tughlaq, Muhammad Tughlaq's cousin, became Sultan in 1351 A.D. Although his military campaigns against Bengal failed, he made government and military positions hereditary, ending the merit-based system. He named his son, Fateh Khan, as his successor and minted coins with both their names. Firoz Shah focused heavily on architecture, founding cities like Hisar Firoza, Firozabad, and Jaunpur. He also moved Ashoka's pillars from Topra and Meerut to Delhi to enhance the beauty of his capital. His most significant achievement was building extensive canal networks, like those from the Sutlej River to Deepalpur and the Yamuna to Sirmur, to combat water scarcity and boost agricultural output. He put in place strong policies to prevent famines and improve farming, earning him a reputation as a benevolent ruler.
In simple words: Firoz Shah Tughlaq became king in 1351. He made government jobs hereditary. He built new cities like Firozabad and dug many canals to help with farming and prevent water shortages.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize Firoz Shah Tughlaq's contributions to public works, such as canal building and city founding, as these were crucial for economic stability and welfare.

Struggle Period of India (1206 A.D to 1757 A.D) Class 10 Social Science RBSE Solutions Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Describe India during Mughal period.
Answer: During the Mughal period, India saw the rise of a powerful empire founded by Babur. He established the Mughal Dynasty in 1526 A.D. after defeating Ibrahim Lodi in the First Battle of Panipat. Babur, a Turkish Muslim and a descendant of Timur, was also related to Genghis Khan through his mother. His full name was Zahir-ud-din Muhammad Babur, and he was the first Timurid descendant to hold the title of Badshah.
The Battle of Khanwa, fought in 1527 A.D., was a crucial conflict between Babur and Rana Sanga, near Agra. Babur won this battle using his "Tulguma method" and declared it a "Jihad." After this victory, he took the title of 'Ghazi'. He further expanded his control by defeating Mediniraya in 1528 A.D. and the Afghans in 1529 A.D.
Babur passed away in 1530 A.D. and was initially buried by the Yamuna River, but later, his body was moved to Kabul as per his wishes. He penned his autobiography, 'Baburnama' (or 'Tuzuk-e-Babri'), in Turkish, which was later translated into Persian by Abdur Rahim Khanakhana.
After Babur's death, his son Nasiruddin Humayun took the throne. Humayun divided his empire among his brothers and relatives, giving Kabul and Qandahar to Kamran, Sambhal to Askari, Alwar and Mewat to Hindal, and Badakhshan to his uncle's son Suleiman. Humayun, after his defeat, went into exile and married Hameeda, who became Akbar's mother. He eventually recaptured Delhi in 1555 A.D. but died soon after in 1556 A.D. due to an accidental fall from his library staircase in Din-Panah. He was known for his interest in astrology and sometimes wore clothes of different colors for each day of the week, reflecting his belief. This system of divided rule often led to internal conflicts within the empire, showcasing the early challenges of Mughal consolidation.
In simple words: Babur started the Mughal rule in India in 1526 after winning the Battle of Panipat. He was a Turkish Muslim from Timur's family. He also won the Battle of Khanwa. After he died in 1530, his son Humayun became ruler and divided the kingdom among his brothers. Humayun later died from a fall.

🎯 Exam Tip: For describing the Mughal period, focus on key emperors like Babur and Humayun, their major battles, cultural contributions (like Baburnama), and the initial challenges of establishing the empire.

Question 2. Discuss Akbar's achievements and his policy.
Answer: Emperor Akbar's reign was marked by significant achievements and a distinct policy of tolerance and integration.
(i) In 1575 A.D., he constructed the Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri for religious discussions and invited scholars from various faiths, including Portuguese missionaries from Goa. This fostered an environment of interfaith dialogue.
(ii) In 1581 A.D., he established Din-e-Ilahi, a syncretic religion that combined positive aspects from different faiths. Raja Birbal was the first Hindu king to embrace this new religion, symbolizing its inclusive nature.
(iii) Shaikh Mubarak declared Akbar as 'Imam-e-Adil' (Mujtahid), signifying his role as a just interpreter of religious law. Akbar supported the Chishti Sufi order and built churches in Lahore and Agra for Christians.
(iv) He also patronized Jain Muni Harivijay Suri, honoring him with the title 'Jagadguru'. Abu'l Fazl served as the chief priest of Din-e-Ilahi. In 1583 A.D., Akbar introduced a new calendar, the Ilahi Samvat.
**Policy towards Rajputs:** Akbar's Rajput policy was characterized by both diplomacy and military strength.
* He formed marital alliances and strategically used demonstrations of power to manage Rajput strength, integrating them into his administration.
* Raja Bharmal of Kachwaha was the first Rajput king to enter into an agreement with Akbar, setting a precedent for peaceful relations.
* Akbar appointed prominent Rajputs like Man Singh and Bhagwan Das to high administrative and military positions, giving them significant authority.
* In 1564 A.D., he abolished the Jizya tax, a tax levied on non-Muslims, which helped in gaining Rajput trust and fostering loyalty.
* While regions like Doongarpur, Banswara, and Pratapgarh acknowledged Mughal supremacy, they largely maintained their internal independence.
Akbar made Fatehpur Sikri his capital from 1569-1584 A.D. and constructed the magnificent Buland Darwaza at the southern gate of the mosque to commemorate his victory over Gujarat, serving as a grand architectural monument.
In simple words: Akbar did many great things. He built a special house (Ibadat Khana) for religious talks and started a new religion called Din-e-Ilahi. He also supported different religious groups. His policy with Rajputs involved marrying into their families and giving them high jobs. He stopped the Jizya tax. He built Fatehpur Sikri as his capital and built the famous Buland Darwaza.

🎯 Exam Tip: Structure your answer by first listing Akbar's general achievements (religious tolerance, new calendar) and then detailing his specific Rajput policy (alliances, appointments, tax abolition).

Question 3. Describe the administration of the Mughal period.
Answer: The administration of the Mughal period was well-organized, with the emperor holding supreme authority. The emperor, known as the Badshah, was also the chief commander of the army. The military system was based on the Mansabdari system, which categorized officials by their rank, divided into:
(a) Jat (which indicated the number of soldiers an officer was expected to maintain)
(b) Sawar (which indicated the actual number of cavalrymen maintained by the officer).
The central administration had key officials like the Subedar (governor), Diwan (finance minister), Sadar Kazi (chief justice), Prantiya Bakshi (provincial paymaster), and Kotwal (city police chief). These roles ensured efficient governance across various departments.
District administration was managed by officials such as the Faujdar (military commander), Amalgujar (revenue collector), Bitikachi (accountant), Shikdar (sub-district officer), Amil (revenue collector), Photdariand (treasurer), and Kanungo (keeper of revenue records). This intricate system allowed the vast Mughal Empire to function effectively, maintaining law, order, and revenue collection across its territories.
In simple words: The Mughal government was run by the emperor, who was also the army chief. The army used the Mansabdari system, with ranks like Jat and Sawar. There were important officers like the Prime Minister and army paymaster. Provinces had governors and other officers like tax collectors. This strong system helped the large Mughal Empire work well.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing Mughal administration, explain the Mansabdari system clearly and identify the key officials at both central and provincial/district levels to show its comprehensive nature.