- Maratha Empire emerged as a dominant power in India during the 17th and 18th centuries.
- Shivaji Maharaj (1627–1680) was the founder of the Maratha Empire.
- Shivaji established a well-organized and disciplined administration based on the principles of justice and welfare.
- The Coronation of Shivaji in 1674 at Raigad marked the formal beginning of the Maratha Empire.
- Shivaji created a powerful navy to protect the western coastline from foreign invasions.
- He introduced Ashta Pradhan Mandal, an eight-minister council for efficient administration.
- The Marathas were known for their innovative guerrilla warfare tactics, called Ganimi Kava.
- After Shivaji’s death, the empire was expanded under his successors, including Sambhaji and Rajaram.
- The Maratha Confederacy was formed under the leadership of the Peshwas.
- Balaji Vishwanath, the first prominent Peshwa, consolidated Maratha power and influence.
- Baji Rao I (1720–1740), one of the greatest Peshwas, expanded the empire beyond the Deccan region.
- Marathas controlled significant territories in Mughal-dominated North India, including Malwa, Gujarat, and Bundelkhand.
- Panipat Battle (1761) was a turning point; the Marathas faced a severe defeat against Ahmad Shah Abdali.
- Despite setbacks, they maintained influence in regions like Mysore and Hyderabad.
- Marathas established efficient tax systems like Chauth (25% of revenue) and Sardeshmukhi (10% additional tax).
- The Maratha Navy under commanders like Kanhoji Angre secured coastal areas and challenged European powers.
- The rise of the Marathas marked the decline of the Mughal Empire.
- Marathas played a significant role in defending India from foreign invasions, including Nadir Shah and Abdali.
- They were instrumental in shaping modern Indian resistance against colonial powers.
- Shahu Maharaj’s reign marked the consolidation of the Maratha Empire.
- The rivalry between Nana Phadnavis and other leaders led to political instability.
- The Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817–1818) marked the end of the Maratha Empire.
- The empire officially dissolved after the British annexed territories under the Doctrine of Lapse.
- Marathas significantly influenced the social and political structures of medieval India.
- Their legacy includes contributions to art, architecture, and administration.
- Major forts like Sinhagad, Pratapgad, and Raigad stand as symbols of Maratha valor.
- Marathas formed alliances with various regional powers to counter foreign aggression.
- Key treaties, such as the Treaty of Purandar (1665) and Treaty of Salbai (1782), defined their relations with other powers.
- Their focus on regional autonomy and decentralized governance shaped future Indian politics.
- Maratha rulers emphasized religious tolerance and patronage of various faiths.
- Their leadership inspired subsequent movements for Indian independence.
Questions
- Who was the founder of the Maratha Empire?
- Which fort was the first capital of Shivaji Maharaj?
- The treaty of Purandar (1665) was signed between Shivaji Maharaj and which Mughal official?
- What was the title adopted by Shivaji Maharaj during his coronation in 1674?
- Who was the first Peshwa of the Maratha Empire?
- The Maratha Navy was significantly developed under which ruler?
- Who succeeded Shivaji Maharaj as the ruler of the Maratha Empire?
- In which battle did the Marathas suffer a major defeat in 1761?
- Who was the Mughal Emperor during Shivaji Maharaj's rise?
- What was the name of the Ashta Pradhan (Council of Eight Ministers) in Shivaji’s administration?
- Which Maratha general is associated with the expansion of the empire in northern India?
- What was the primary revenue system introduced by the Marathas?
- Who captured and executed Sambhaji Maharaj?
- What was the main cause of the Third Battle of Panipat?
- Which treaty ended the First Anglo-Maratha War?
- Who was the leader of the Maratha Confederacy during the Third Battle of Panipat?
- In which year was the Maratha Empire officially established?
- Who is known as the “Second Shivaji” in Maratha history?
- What was the capital of the Maratha Empire during Shahu Maharaj’s reign?
- Which Maratha leader signed the Treaty of Bassein (1802) with the British?
- Which system was used by the Marathas to collect revenue from other states?
- Who was the first ruler of the Kolhapur branch of the Maratha Empire?
- The Maratha Confederacy consisted of how many prominent families?
- Who was the architect of the Maratha resurgence after the Third Battle of Panipat?
- What is the term for the Maratha practice of demanding a share of revenue from neighboring states?
- In which year did Shivaji Maharaj escape from Agra?
- Who was the last Peshwa of the Maratha Empire?
- What was the official language of the Maratha Empire?
- Which European power was defeated by the Marathas in 1739 at Bassein?
- The Battle of Pratapgad (1659) was fought between Shivaji and which adversary?