Medieval and Modern Indian History

The Mauryan Empire is known for unifying India, building roads, and promoting Buddhism and non-violence. Hinduism was not spread by the Mauryan state; in fact, Asoka is famous for his patronage of Buddhism.

The Yuan Dynasty was established by Kublai Khan and the Mongols, ruling China from 1271 to 1368 before being overthrown by the Ming.

James Mill, in his work, argued that the British were necessary to civilize India and that they should conquer all territories to ensure progress and happiness, reflecting colonial bias.

James Mill's periodization of Indian history consisted of three periods: Hindu, Muslim, and British. 'Sikh' was not one of his categories.

For the last 250 years of Indian history, historians rely heavily on the extensive official records maintained by the British administration, which documented their policies and activities.

The Great Bengal Famine of 1770 was a catastrophic famine that struck the Bengal region, causing massive loss of life.

The Battle of Plassey in 1757 is widely considered the decisive victory that established British political dominance in Bengal and eventually India. The Battle of Buxar later solidified this control.

Genghis Khan founded the Mongol Empire, which became the largest contiguous land empire in history after his death.

The Yuan Dynasty was established by Kublai Khan, a grandson of Genghis Khan, after the Mongols conquered China.

The Ming Dynasty was established in 1368 after the collapse of the Mongol-led Yuan Dynasty, effectively expelling the Mongols from China.

The Maratha Empire (or Confederacy) rose to power in the 17th and 18th centuries and was the primary rival to the Mughal Empire for control over the Indian subcontinent.

Following the Sepoy Rebellion of 1857, the British government dissolved the East India Company and took direct control of India, establishing the British Raj.

Following the 1857 Rebellion, the British government dissolved the British East India Company (BEIC) and took direct control of India, while the Mughal Empire was formally abolished as the last emperor was deposed.

While railroads were built, roads were the primary infrastructure used for rapid movement of troops and supplies across the subcontinent to suppress rebellions and maintain order.