Maratha vs. Mughal
What's the Difference?
The Maratha Empire and the Mughal Empire were two powerful dynasties that ruled over different regions of India during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Mughal Empire, founded by Babur in 1526, was a Muslim dynasty that ruled over a vast territory in the Indian subcontinent, including present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The Maratha Empire, on the other hand, was a Hindu empire that emerged as a powerful force in the Deccan region of India, challenging Mughal authority. While the Mughals were known for their centralized administration and grand architectural achievements, the Marathas were known for their decentralized governance and military prowess. Ultimately, the Marathas were able to weaken the Mughal Empire and establish their own dominance in parts of India before eventually succumbing to British colonial rule.
Comparison
| Attribute | Maratha | Mughal |
|---|---|---|
| Founder | Shivaji Bhonsle | Babur |
| Capital | Raigad, later Pune | Agra, later Delhi |
| Religion | Hinduism | Islam |
| Extent of Empire | Western India | Most of the Indian subcontinent |
| System of Governance | Decentralized | Centralized |
Further Detail
History
The Maratha Empire was founded by Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century in the region of present-day Maharashtra, India. Shivaji Maharaj was a skilled military leader who established a strong Maratha kingdom that challenged the Mughal Empire's dominance in the region. The Mughal Empire, on the other hand, was founded by Babur in 1526 and reached its peak under the rule of Akbar the Great in the 16th century. The Mughals ruled over a vast territory in the Indian subcontinent, including present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
Government and Administration
The Maratha Empire was a confederation of Maratha chiefs who ruled semi-autonomously under the leadership of a Peshwa (prime minister). The Peshwa was responsible for overseeing the administration and military affairs of the empire. In contrast, the Mughal Empire was a centralized monarchy with the emperor holding absolute power. The emperor was assisted by a council of ministers who helped in governing the empire.
Military
The Marathas were known for their guerrilla warfare tactics and were skilled in cavalry warfare. They were able to challenge the Mughal Empire's superior forces through their hit-and-run tactics and knowledge of the terrain. The Mughal army, on the other hand, was known for its use of artillery and disciplined infantry. The Mughals had a well-organized military structure with a strong emphasis on gunpowder weapons.
Religion and Culture
The Marathas were predominantly Hindu and promoted Hindu culture and traditions in their empire. They were tolerant of other religions and allowed for religious freedom within their territories. The Mughal Empire, on the other hand, was known for its policy of religious tolerance under Akbar's rule. Akbar promoted a syncretic form of religion known as Din-i Ilahi, which combined elements of Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism.
Legacy
The Maratha Empire played a significant role in Indian history by challenging the Mughal Empire's dominance and establishing a strong regional power in western India. The Marathas were able to resist foreign invasions and maintain their independence for a considerable period of time. The Mughal Empire, on the other hand, declined in the 18th century due to internal strife, invasions by foreign powers, and economic instability. The Mughals left behind a rich cultural legacy, including the Taj Mahal and other architectural marvels.
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