Later Mughals: Decline of the Mughal Empire

The Mughal Empire, once a symbol of unity and prosperity in India, began its decline after the reign of Aurangzeb (1658–1707). The Later Mughals, successors of Aurangzeb, struggled with weak administration, political instability, and external invasions, ultimately leading to the fragmentation of the empire.

Key Rulers of the Later Mughals

1. Bahadur Shah I (1707–1712)

   • Also known as Shah Alam I.
   • Attempted to reconcile with the Rajputs, Marathas, and Sikhs.
   • His reign was marked by political instability and succession disputes.

2. Jahandar Shah (1712–1713)

   • His reign lasted only a year.
   • Known for his extravagant lifestyle.
   • Deposed by his nephew, Farrukhsiyar.

3. Farrukhsiyar (1713–1719)

   • Ascended the throne with the help of the Sayyid Brothers (Kingmakers).
   • Issued the farman granting trading rights to the British East India Company.
   • Executed by the Sayyid Brothers after falling out of favor.

4. Muhammad Shah (1719–1748)

   • Also known as Muhammad Shah Rangila.
   • Faced Nadir Shah's invasion in 1739, leading to the plunder of Delhi and the loss of the Peacock Throne.
   • His reign saw the weakening of the empire’s control over provinces.

5. Ahmad Shah Bahadur (1748–1754)

   • Ineffective ruler, leading to further decline in administration.
   • Faced invasions by Ahmad Shah Durrani (Abdali).

6. Alamgir II (1754–1759)

   • Puppet ruler under the control of Wazir Imad-ul-Mulk.
   • Assassinated in 1759.

7. Shah Jahan III (1759–1760)

   • Briefly placed on the throne by a faction of nobles.

8. Shah Alam II (1760–1806)

   • Witnessed the Battle of Buxar (1764), where the British East India Company gained significant power.
   • Became a pensioner of the British in 1803.

9. Akbar Shah II (1806–1837)

   • Retained a nominal title with no real power.
   • British continued to consolidate their control.

10. Bahadur Shah II (1837–1857)

• The last Mughal emperor.
• Played a symbolic role in the Revolt of 1857.
• Exiled to Rangoon after the revolt, marking the end of the Mughal dynasty.

Causes of Decline

1. Weak Successors:

   • The Later Mughals lacked administrative and military prowess.

2. Economic Issues:

   • Draining of resources due to wars and luxurious lifestyles.
   • Decreasing revenue from provinces.

3. Rise of Regional Powers:

   • Emergence of independent states like Awadh, Bengal, Hyderabad, and Marathas.

4. Foreign Invasions:

   • Nadir Shah’s invasion (1739) and repeated attacks by Ahmad Shah Abdali weakened the empire.

5. British Expansion:

   • Exploited internal conflicts to establish control over territories.

6. Administrative Corruption:

   • Inefficient governance and declining law and order.

Legacy

• The Later Mughals, though weak, were instrumental in transitioning India from a centralized empire to fragmented states, paving the way for British dominance.
• The cultural contributions, especially in art and architecture, continued during this period, albeit on a smaller scale.