SSC History Mughal Empire (Babur - Humanyun - Akbar) Notes for CGL, CHSL, CPO, MTS Exams

SSC History Mughal Empire: Mughal Empire marks one of the most significant periods in Indian history, shaping the political, cultural, and administrative landscape of the subcontinent. For SSC exams like SSC CGL, CHSL, CPO, and MTS, understanding the rulers Babur, Humayun, and Akbar is crucial, as questions often cover their battles, administration, and contributions to art and culture. 

Babur laid the foundation of the empire with his victories at Panipat and Khanwa. Humayun faced initial setbacks but later regained the throne, and Akbar established a strong, centralized administration while promoting cultural integration and religious tolerance. Aditya Sir explains the early Mughal rulers in detail, providing high-yield facts that help SSC aspirants focus on important points for their history preparation.

Babur (1526 – 1530)

Babur, a descendant of Timur and Genghis Khan, was the founder of the Mughal Empire in India. He established his rule after defeating Ibrahim Lodi in the First Battle of Panipat (1526). Key Points:

• Origin: Fergana (present-day Uzbekistan)

• Dynasty: Timurid

• Important Battles:

• First Battle of Panipat (1526): Defeated Ibrahim Lodi of the Delhi Sultanate

• Battle of Khanwa (1527): Defeated Rana Sanga of Mewar

• Administration: Introduced Mughal administrative practices, though more consolidated by later rulers

• Contribution to Culture: Patron of arts, literature, and architecture
  
  

SSC Tip: Babur’s Baburnama, his autobiography, is a primary source of information about his life and times.

Humayun (1530 – 1540, 1555 – 1556)

Humayun, the son of Babur, had a turbulent reign. Initially, he faced several setbacks, including his defeat by Sher Shah Suri, which led to his temporary exile. Key Points:

• Loss of Empire: Defeated by Sher Shah Suri in 1540; fled to Persia for asylum

• Return to Power: Regained the throne in 1555 with Persian support

• Death: Died in 1556 after falling from the stairs in Delhi

Contribution:

• Though Humayun's reign was short and marked by instability, his return to power set the stage for Akbar’s consolidation of the empire.

SSC Tip: Humayun’s tomb in Delhi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of early Mughal architecture.

Akbar (1556 – 1605)

Akbar, one of India’s greatest rulers, is remembered for his administrative genius, military conquests, and cultural contributions. He ascended the throne at the age of 13 under the regency of Bairam Khan. Key Events in Akbar’s Reign:

a) Expansion of the Empire:

• Kashmir Annexation (1586): Akbar added Kashmir to the Mughal Empire. Bairam Khan and generals like Raja Todar Mal played significant roles.

• Subjugation of Mewar: Ruler Amar Singh accepted Mughal suzerainty during Jahangir’s reign, respecting the legacy of Maharana Pratap.

• Tukoarai Battle (1575): Defeated Daud Khan Karrani, capturing Bengal and Bihar.
  
  

b) Administration:

• Iqtadari System: Revenue collection and administrative division. 

• Mansabdari System: Hierarchical structure for military and civil officers. 

• Ain-i-Akbari: Written by Abul Fazl, detailed Akbar’s administration, revenue, military, and justice system

• Note: Ain-i-Akbari does not cover Akbar’s ancestors.

• Language: Persian

• Land Classification:

• Chachar: Land lying fallow for 3–4 years

• Parauti: Land left idle for 1–2 years to regain fertility

• Polaj: Most fertile land

• Measurement Units:

• Gaz: Standard measurement of land

• Tasuaj: Subdivisions of Gaz

c) Cultural Contributions:

• Raga System: Patronized music; Tansen was a prominent court musician

• Important Ragas: Rag Darbari, Miyan Ki Todi, Miyan Malhar, Rag Deepak

• Architecture:

• Fatehpur Sikri: First planned city of the Mughals

• Buland Darwaza: Built in 1571 to commemorate the Gujarat victory

• Sheikh Salim Chishti’s Dargah: Located in Fatehpur Sikri

• Religious Policy:

• Promoted Din-i-Ilahi, a syncretic religion

• Implemented tolerance among Hindus, Muslims, and other communities

d) Key Documents & Trade Relations:

• Mahzarnama (1579): Issued directives in accordance with Islamic Sharia but ensured the emperor’s authority prevailed. 

• East India Company Trade Privileges: Obtained under Thomas Roe (1615) during Jahangir’s reign. 

• Equivalents of Babur’s Autobiography: Ain-i-Akbari provides administrative details; Tansen’s role in music.