Aurangzeb's Strategy and the Deccan States (1658-1687)
Aurangzeb's Strategy and the Deccan States (1658-1687): Key Historical Insights
Initial Conquests: Aurangzeb's Campaign in the Deccan (Until 1668)
Aurangzeb focused on reclaiming territories from Bijapur that were previously part of the Ahmadnagar state, based on the treaty of 1636.
His strategy emphasized recovering these lands without initiating a large-scale military invasion.
Strategic Alliances and Conflicts: Deccan Warfare (Until 1684)
The primary threat in the Deccan came from the Marathas, particularly under the leadership of Shivaji.
Aurangzeb sought to forge alliances with Bijapur and Golconda to counter the Maratha influence.
The Mughals aimed to gradually undermine the Deccani states to establish complete control over the region.
Decisive Actions: The Mughal Strategy Against the Marathas (After 1684)
Faced with ongoing resistance from the Marathas, Aurangzeb determined that conquering Bijapur and Golconda was essential.
Shah Jahan's previous treaty of 1636 was set aside as Aurangzeb sought to eliminate the Maratha threat.
By 1657-58, both Bijapur and Golconda were under significant pressure, with substantial losses incurred.
Economic and Political Implications of Aurangzeb's Campaigns
Aurangzeb justified his military campaigns by highlighting Bijapur and Golconda's conquests in Karnataka.
The high costs of maintaining Mughal forces in the Deccan were not offset by the limited revenues from the conquered territories.
Financial support was required from Malwa and Gujarat to sustain Mughal operations in the Deccan.
Inconsistent policies eroded trust in Mughal treaties, fostering resistance among the Deccani states.
Despite efforts spanning over twenty-five years, Aurangzeb's campaigns yielded limited success against the Marathas.
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