Medieval and Islamic History

Alauddin Hasan founded the Bahmani Kingdom in 1347 AD.

Babur authored the Baburnama in Chagatai Turkic, providing a detailed firsthand account of his life, conquests, and observations of India. Jahangir wrote the Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri (Jahangirnama), an autobiographical work documenting his reign, travels, and the natural world. These are among the most valuable primary sources for Mughal history.

After Akbar assumed direct control of the empire in 1560, Bairam Khan's regency became increasingly problematic as he grew powerful and rebellious. Rather than executing or openly confronting him, Akbar diplomatically sent him on pilgrimage to Mecca in 1561, effectively removing his influence from court while maintaining religious propriety.

In 1830, Akbar II sent Raja Ram Mohan Roy to England as his representative to petition the British government for an increase in the Mughal emperor's pension. The pension had been reduced and was insufficient to maintain the dignity and expenses of the imperial household, reflecting the declining political power of the Mughals under British paramountcy.

The Padshahnama is an elaborately illustrated imperial chronicle commissioned by Shah Jahan that documents the first decade of his reign (1628-1638). It records his major events, court ceremonies, hunting expeditions, and architectural achievements including the Taj Mahal's construction. The work exemplifies the pinnacle of Mughal manuscript painting and historiography.

Correct Answer: 2 - 1 - 4 - 3

Correct Answer: Aurangzeb Jizya was temporarily abolished by the third Mughal emperor Akbar, in the late 16th century. However, Aurangzeb, the sixth emperor, re-introduced and levied jizya on non-Muslims in the 17th century. 

Abdullah Khan and Hussain Ali Khan, known as the Sayyid Brothers, became kingmakers during Farrukh Siyar's reign (1713-1719). They helped him ascend the throne after murdering Jahandar Shah, then dominated his administration through their positions as wazir and mir bakshi respectively. Their control over imperial succession and administration marked a low point in Mughal central authority.

Akbar was born on October 15, 1542, at Amarkot (modern-day Umarkot in Sindh, Pakistan) while his father Humayun was in exile following his defeat by Sher Shah Suri. The Hindu ruler Rana Virsal of Amarkot gave refuge to Humayun and provided safe haven for the birth of the future Mughal emperor.

Tulsidas (1532-1623), the great saint-poet and author of Ramcharitmanas, lived during Akbar's reign (1556-1605). His major works were composed in this period, benefiting from the relative peace and religious tolerance of Akbar's rule. The Ramcharitmanas, written in Awadhi, made the Ramayana accessible to common people and remains one of the most revered texts in North Indian Hinduism.

Khurram Shahab-ud-din came to be known as Emperor Shahjahan after succeeding to the throne.

Muhammad Muazzam, the eldest surviving son of Aurangzeb, succeeded him in 1707 and took the title Bahadur Shah I (often called Shah Alam I). Though already over 60 when he ascended, he attempted to reverse some of Aurangzeb's strict policies and reconcile with Rajput states and Marathas. His brief reign marked the beginning of the rapid Mughal decline.

Alauddin Khilji was not a slave before becoming Sultan - he was from the Khalji tribe and seized power. In contrast, Iltutmish and Balban both started as slaves before rising to power.

Khizar Khan founded the Sayyid dynasty in 1414 AD after being appointed governor by Timur. He ruled as the first Sayyid Sultan until 1421 AD.

Balban was known for his strict court etiquette and Persian concept of divine kingship. He forbade laughter in his court to maintain royal dignity and solemn atmosphere.