Thirteenth and fourteenth Centuries: Ghorian invasions causes and consequences. Delhi Sultanate under the “Slave” Rulers. Alauddin Khalji: Conquests; administrative, agrarian and economic measures. Muhammad Tughlaq’s innovations

Thirteenth and Fourteenth Centuries: Key Events and Figures

Ghorian Invasions: Causes and Consequences

Causes

1. Political Fragmentation:
   • The decline of the powerful Rajput kingdoms and the weakening of regional powers created a political vacuum in northern India.
2. Strategic Expansion:
   • The Ghorids, originating from the region of Ghor in present-day Afghanistan, sought to expand their territory for both strategic and economic reasons.
3. Religious Motive:
   • The desire to spread Islam, though not the primary motive, played a role in the invasions.
4. Economic Interests:
   • India was known for its wealth and resources, making it an attractive target for conquest.

Consequences

1. Establishment of the Delhi Sultanate:
   • The Ghorian invasions laid the foundation for the Delhi Sultanate, beginning with Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1206.
2. Cultural and Religious Changes:
   • The influx of Persian culture and Islamic traditions influenced Indian architecture, art, and society.
3. Administrative Reorganization:
   • Introduction of new administrative practices and reforms, including the iqta system (land revenue assignments).
4. Military Innovations:
   • Establishment of a standing army and introduction of new military tactics and technologies.

Delhi Sultanate under the "Slave" Rulers (Mamluk Dynasty)

• The Mamluk or "Slave" Dynasty (1206-1290) was founded by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, a former slave of Muhammad of Ghor.
• Notable rulers include Iltutmish and Balban.
1. Qutb-ud-din Aibak (1206-1210):
   • Established the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate.
   • Initiated the construction of the Qutub Minar.
2. Iltutmish (1211-1236):
   • Consolidated the Sultanate's control over northern India.
   • Introduced the iqta system and currency reforms.
   • Patronized art and architecture, including the completion of the Qutub Minar.
3. Balban (1266-1287):
   • Strengthened the central authority and enforced strict discipline.
   • Implemented policies to curb the power of the nobility.
   • Expanded the Sultanate's territory and dealt with internal rebellions.

Alauddin Khalji (1296-1316)

Conquests

1. Northern India:
   • Conquered Gujarat and Malwa, securing key trade routes.
2. Southern India:
   • Conducted successful campaigns in the Deccan, extending the Sultanate’s influence.

Administrative Measures

1. Centralized Administration:
   • Strengthened central control and reduced the power of regional governors.
2. Revenue Reforms:
   • Implemented a rigorous revenue system based on measurement of land and fixed assessments, ensuring higher state revenue.
3. Market Reforms:
   • Established controlled markets (mandis) to regulate prices of essential goods.
   • Set up a system of price control and rationing to prevent inflation and hoarding.

Agrarian Measures

1. Land Revenue System:
   • Assessed land revenue based on crop yields and fixed rates.
2. Village Administration:
   • Implemented measures to monitor agricultural production and ensure efficient tax collection.

Economic Measures

1. Market Regulations:
   • Enforced strict price controls and quality checks to stabilize the economy.
2. State Granaries:
   • Created granaries to store surplus grain to be used in times of scarcity.

Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1325-1351)

Innovations

1. Token Currency:
   • Introduced copper coins as token currency to replace silver coins, which led to widespread counterfeiting and economic instability.
2. Transfer of Capital:
   • Attempted to move the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad (in present-day Maharashtra) to better control the Deccan region. This move caused great hardship and ultimately failed.
3. Agricultural Reforms:
   • Proposed the development of the Doab region by providing tax relief and irrigation projects, but these reforms faced resistance and were poorly implemented.
4. Administrative Reforms:
   • Attempted to create a more efficient and centralized administration but faced numerous rebellions and administrative challenges.