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A chronological overview of the Khalji and Tughlaq dynasties, exploring the key events that shaped the Delhi Sultanate from 1286 to 1412.

The Khaljis and the Tughlaqs

Before the Khaljis (1286-1290)

Overview:

  • After Balban's death in 1286, Delhi faced confusion and instability.
  • Prince Mahmud, Balban's chosen successor, died earlier in battle.
  • Bughra Khan declined Delhi's throne and preferred Bengal and Bihar.
  • Turkish nobles' monopoly on high offices led to resentment among non-Turks like the Khaljis.
  • Many Khaljis, of mixed Turkish-Afghan origin, had moved to Bengal and Bihar seeking advancement.
  • Indian Muslims in the nobility were dissatisfied with being denied high offices.

The Khaljis (1290-1320)

Overview:

  • Led by Jalaluddin Khalji, Khalji nobles overthrew Balban's incompetent successors in 1290.
  • Khalji rebellion was supported by non-Turkish sections of the nobility.
  • Jalaluddin Khalji ruled for six years, trying to mitigate Balban's harsh policies.
  • Advocated for a state based on support from the governed, acknowledging India's Hindu majority.
  • Alauddin Khalji came to power in 1296 by killing Jalaluddin Khalji.
  • Accumulated wealth through military campaigns, facing rebellions and opposition initially.
  • Established severe control through punishments, including massacres and regulations on nobles.
  • Made nobles subservient but destroyed the old nobility, paving way for anyone to ascend the throne.
  • After Alauddin's death in 1316, succession issues arose, leading to Khusrau's brief reign.
  • Khusrau, a Hindu convert, ruled without significant opposition from Muslims, indicating broad acceptance.

The Tughlaqs (1320-1412)

Overview:

  • Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq founded the Tughlaq dynasty, ruling until 1412.
  • Competent rulers like Muhammad bin Tughlaq and Firuz Shah Tughlaq expanded the empire.
  • After Firuz Shah's death, the Delhi Sultanate fragmented into smaller states.
  • Timur's invasion in 1398 is considered marking the end of the Tughlaq empire.

General Observations and Conclusions

Overview:

  • The Delhi Sultanate under Alauddin Khalji saw centralization through severe methods.
  • Khaljis and Tughlaqs' periods witnessed significant expansion and subsequent internal challenges.
  • Succession struggles and external invasions contributed to the decline of the Delhi Sultanate.