Akbar the Great

  1. Akbar (r. 1556–1605) was the third Mughal emperor and is considered one of the greatest rulers in Indian history.
  2. He ascended the throne at the age of 13 after the death of his father, Humayun.
  3. Akbar's reign began with the guidance of his regent and mentor, Bairam Khan, who helped secure Mughal authority by defeating Hemu in the Second Battle of Panipat (1556).
  4. He implemented a policy of religious tolerance, fostering harmony among various communities.
  5. Akbar abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims and encouraged interfaith dialogues through his Ibadat Khana (House of Worship).
  6. The emperor established the Din-i-Ilahi, a syncretic religious movement blending elements of various faiths.
  7. His administrative system was based on the mansabdari system, where officials were ranked and paid according to their position and responsibility.
  8. He introduced a standardized revenue collection system called zabt, implemented by his finance minister Raja Todar Mal.
  9. Akbar expanded the Mughal Empire to include almost the entire Indian subcontinent, including Gujarat, Bengal, Kashmir, and Deccan regions.
  10. His military strategy included alliances with Rajput rulers through matrimonial alliances, earning their loyalty and cooperation.
  11. The construction of the new capital, Fatehpur Sikri, symbolized Akbar's architectural achievements and vision.
  12. He promoted art and culture, encouraging the development of Mughal miniature paintings and patronizing scholars, poets, and musicians.
  13. Akbar's court included notable personalities like Birbal, Tansen, and Abul Fazl, who authored the Akbarnama, a detailed account of his reign.
  14. The emperor strengthened the navy to protect coastal regions and bolster trade.
  15. He established diplomatic relations with foreign powers, including the Portuguese and Safavids.
  16. Akbar encouraged the use of the Persian language in administration, which became the lingua franca of the Mughal court.
  17. He introduced innovations in warfare, including the use of artillery and gunpowder in battles.
  18. Under Akbar, the Mughal Empire became a hub of economic prosperity and cultural exchange.
  19. He founded several educational institutions and libraries, promoting knowledge and learning.
  20. Akbar’s reign marked the zenith of Mughal architecture, blending Persian, Indian, and Central Asian styles.
  21. He supported agriculture by building irrigation systems and granting tax relief during droughts.
  22. Akbar abolished practices like sati and child marriage, advocating for social reforms.
  23. The emperor introduced a calendar called the Fasli calendar to streamline tax collection.
  24. Akbar’s policy of Sulh-i-Kul (universal peace) emphasized the coexistence of diverse cultures and religions.
  25. He maintained a strong intelligence network to ensure internal security and thwart rebellions.
  26. Akbar’s tolerance extended to appointing non-Muslims to high-ranking positions in his administration.
  27. His rule laid the foundation for a centralized and efficient administrative structure.
  28. The Mughal Empire under Akbar became a major center of trade and commerce, attracting merchants from across Asia and Europe.
  29. Akbar’s death in 1605 marked the end of an era of unparalleled governance and cultural enrichment.
Category
Mughal Empire (1526–1857 CE)
History of India