Keywords To Remember
Keyword | Definition |
Delhi Sultanate | A Muslim kingdom that ruled large parts of India from 1206 to 1526 CE, established by Qutubuddin Aibek. |
Muhammad Ghori | A ruler from Ghor (Afghanistan) who invaded India and laid the foundation for Muslim rule by defeating Prithviraj Chauhan in 1192 CE. |
Prithviraj Chauhan | The Rajput ruler of Delhi and Ajmer who initially defeated Muhammad Ghori in 1191 but was later killed in the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192. |
Qutubuddin Aibek | A former slave of Muhammad Ghori and the founder of the Slave Dynasty in India; ruled from 1206 to 1210 CE. |
Slave Dynasty (Mamluk) | The first dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate (1206–1290), ruled by former slaves. |
Iltutmish | Son-in-law of Aibek and the real consolidator of the Delhi Sultanate; introduced administrative reforms and coinage system. |
Razia Sultan | The first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate; ruled from 1236–1240 CE. |
Chaliha (Group of 40) | A group of 40 powerful Turkish nobles organized by Iltutmish to assist in administration. |
Tanka | Silver coin introduced by Iltutmish. |
Jital | Copper coin introduced by Iltutmish. |
Ghiyasuddin Balban | A powerful ruler of the Slave Dynasty who strengthened the Sultanate and promoted strict discipline in court. |
Khalji Dynasty | A ruling dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate (1290–1320), established by Jalal-ud-din Khalji. |
Jalal-ud-din Khalji | The founder of the Khalji dynasty; ruled from 1290–1296 CE. |
Alauddin Khalji | A powerful ruler of the Khalji Dynasty (1296–1316 CE), known for military expansion and economic reforms. |
Devagiri | A southern kingdom captured by Alauddin Khalji during his military campaigns. |
Hulia and Dag | Methods used by Alauddin Khalji to maintain army discipline: Hulia (record of appearance) and Dag (branding of horses). |
Market Reforms | Economic policies introduced by Alauddin Khalji to control prices and prevent hoarding. |
Padmavati / Padmini | Legendary queen of Chittor whose story was written by Malik Muhammad Jayasi in Padmavat; committed Johar to protect her honor. |
Johar | A practice where Rajput women committed self-immolation to avoid capture by invaders. |
Malik Muhammad Jayasi | A poet who wrote the famous epic Padmavat, describing the tale of Queen Padmini. |
Ulugh Khan | Another name for Alauddin Khalji before becoming Sultan. |
Mongol Invasion | Series of invasions by Mongols; rulers like Iltutmish and Balban took preventive actions to safeguard their empire. |
Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque | A mosque built by Qutubuddin Aibek in Delhi. |
Dhai Din Ka Jhopra | A mosque built by Qutubuddin Aibek in Ajmer, originally a Sanskrit college turned into a mosque. |
Nasiruddin Mahmood | Youngest son of Iltutmish; a nominal ruler while real power remained with Balban, his Prime Minister. |
Something To Know
A. Tick (✔) the correct option.
- Before assuming office of the Sultan of Delhi, Balban was the Prime Minister of which Sultan?
(a) Nasir-ud-din
(b) Bahram
(c) Razia
(d) Qutubuddin
Answer – (a) Nasir-ud-din
- Which Sultan made a successful attempt to free himself from the control of the Ulemas?
(a) Balban
(b) Alauddin
(c) Firoz Shah
(d) Sikander Lodi
Answer – (b) Alauddin
- Which of the following cities was NOT founded by Feroz Tughlaq?
(a) Ferozabad
(b) Jaunpur
(c) Fatehpur
(d) Hissar
Answer – (c) Fatehpur
- The first ever lady Sultan of India, Razia Sultan, ascended the throne in 1236 CE after-
(a) Iltutmish
(b) Qutub-ud-din Aibek
(c) Ruknuddin
(d) Bahram Shah
Answer – (c) Ruknuddin
- Which one of the following statements regarding Feroz Tughlaq is NOT correct?
(a) He patronised Ulemas.
(b) He exempted the Hindus from paying jazia.
(c) He laid many fruit gardens.
(d) He helped the poor Muslims.
Answer – (b) He exempted the Hindus from paying jazia.
B. Fill in the blanks.
- Slave dynasty was founded by __________ .
Answer – Qutubuddin Aibek.
- __________ founded the new city of Agra in __________ .
Answer – Sikandar Lodi, 1504 CE
- Ibrahim Lodi was defeated by __________ in the Battle of __________
in __________ .
Answer – Babur, 1526.
- Hindu society was based on __________ system.
Answer – caste
- India’s foreign trade was carried on both by __________ and __________ .
Answer – land and sea.
- __________ was the writer of Tarikh-i-Ferozshahi.
Answer – Ziauddin Barani
C. Match the following:
- Ala-ud-din a. Juna Khan
- Timur b. Qutubuddin Aibek
- Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq c. Prithviraj Chauhan
- Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque d. Alai Darwaja
- Muhammad Ghori e. Samarkand
Answer –
Ala-ud-din – (d) Alai Darwaja
Timur – (e) Samarkand
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq – (a) Juna Khan
Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque – (b) Qutubuddin Aibek
Muhammad Ghori – (c) Prithviraj Chauhan
D. Answer the following questions in brief.
- Name two literary gems of Qutubuddin Aibek’s court.
Answer – Hasan Nizami and Fakhr-i-Mudabbir
- When and between whom was the First Battle of Panipat fought?
Answer – The First Battle of Panipat was fought in 1526 between Babur and Ibrahim Lodi.
- Mention four social evils prevalent in the Hindu society during the Sultanate period.
Answer – Caste system, Sati, Child marriage, Untouchability
- Mention four items which were exported from India.
Answer – Spices, Cotton textiles, Indigo, Precious stones
- Name two Sultans who kept the Ulemas away from the administration.
Answer – Alauddin Khalji and Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq
E. Answer the following questions
- Describe the administrative reforms made by Iltutmish to strengthen his hold on Delhi Sultanate.
Answer – Iltutmish introduced Iqta system, organized the Chaliha (Group of 40 nobles), issued silver (tanka) and copper (jital) coins, and established Delhi as the capital. He also secured recognition from the Caliph in Baghdad.
- ‘Balban was a strong and capable ruler’. Support the statement by giving suitable arguments.
Answer – Balban suppressed internal revolts, crushed the power of Turkish nobles, introduced strict court discipline, and strengthened the military. His policies laid a strong foundation for central authority.
- Explain briefly the economic reforms of Ala-ud-din Khalji.
Answer – Alauddin introduced price control measures, established government granaries, controlled the market through officers, implemented land revenue reforms, and maintained detailed records (Hulia and Dag) to prevent corruption.
- State the reforms made by Feroz Tughlaq to redress the grievances of the people.
Answer – Feroz Tughlaq built hospitals and rest houses, promoted agriculture, established irrigation facilities, abolished many harsh taxes, and constructed new cities like Ferozabad and Hissar.
- Describe Muhammad Tughlaq’s projects which failed.
Answer – His capital transfer to Daulatabad failed due to harsh conditions. Token currency failed due to forgery. His taxation in Doab region failed due to famine, and the expedition to Khurasan was aborted.
Value Based Question
Iltutmish ordered grand celebrations to welcome the birth of his first daughter after many sons. He took personal interest in her education and training. Once when Iltutmish was busy with the siege of the Gwalior fort, he had entrusted the government in Delhi to Razia, and on his return was so impressed with her performance that he decided to appoint her as his successor.
- In your opinion, how far was Iltutmish justified in appointing Razia as his successor and not any of his sons?
Answer – Iltutmish was justified because Razia was competent, educated, and demonstrated good administrative skills. His sons were either incompetent or lacked leadership.
- What message does it give to all of us towards empowerment of women in India?
Answer – It shows that leadership should be based on merit, not gender. Empowering women through education and equal opportunities leads to a more just and progressive society.
Map Skill
- On an outline map of India, locate and label the following-
(a) Delhi
(b) Panipat
(c) Jaunpur
(d) Hissar
(e) Devgiri
Answer – Do it yourself.
- Mark the extent of Ala-ud-din Khalji’s Sultanate on an outline map of India.
Answer – – Do it yourself.
Something To Do
- Design a timeline chart showing major Dynasties and rulers of Sultanate period.
Answer – Answer: (Suggestion: Slave Dynasty → Khalji Dynasty → Tughlaq Dynasty → Sayyid Dynasty → Lodi Dynasty) rest students will do.
- Collect one picture each of Indian women who excelled in the field of administration, dance, music, science or space, sports and entrepreneurship.
Answer – Administration: Indira Gandhi
Dance: Rukmini Devi Arundale
Music: Lata Mangeshkar
Science or Space: Kalpana Chawla
Sports: P. V. Sindhu
Entrepreneurship: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Additional Questions and Answers – 01
- The Delhi Sultanate was established in 1206 CE.
- The Khalji dynasty succeeded the Slave dynasty.
- The first Battle of Panipat was fought in 1526 CE.
- Razia Sultan was the only woman to sit on the throne of Delhi.
- Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq shifted his capital from Delhi to Daulatabad.
- The Iqta system was introduced by Iltutmish.
- Feroz Shah Tughlaq built many canals for irrigation.
- Alauddin Khalji set up a strict market control
- Qutub Minar was completed by Iltutmish.
- The title ‘Sultan’ means ‘authority’ or ‘power’.
- Balban followed the policy of Blood and Iron.
- Timur invaded India in 1398 CE.
- Bahlul Lodi was the founder of the Lodi dynasty.
- Delhi Sultanate’s revenue was collected mainly in cash and kind.
- Qutubuddin Aibek was also known as Lakh Baksh.
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Who completed the construction of Qutub Minar?
(a) Qutubuddin Aibek
(b) Iltutmish ✅
(c) Alauddin Khalji
(d) Balban - The Battle of Panipat in 1526 led to the end of which dynasty?
(a) Slave
(b) Khalji
(c) Tughlaq
(d) Lodi ✅ - Which Sultan shifted the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad?
(a) Balban
(b) Alauddin Khalji
(c) Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq ✅
(d) Feroz Tughlaq - The Khalji dynasty was founded by:
(a) Alauddin Khalji
(b) Jalaluddin Khalji ✅
(c) Qutubuddin Aibek
(d) Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq - Who was known as the ‘Lakh Baksh’?
(a) Iltutmish
(b) Qutubuddin Aibek ✅
(c) Balban
(d) Timur - Feroz Shah Tughlaq built a new city called:
(a) Agra
(b) Jaunpur
(c) Hissar ✅
(d) Panipat - Which of the following rulers was known for price control measures?
(a) Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq
(b) Alauddin Khalji ✅
(c) Feroz Tughlaq
(d) Balban
- True / False (with Answers)
- Razia Sultan was the daughter of Balban. ❌ (False – She was the daughter of Iltutmish.)
- The Delhi Sultanate ended with the death of Ibrahim Lodi. ✅ (True)
- Alauddin Khalji introduced paper currency. ❌ (False – It was Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq.)
- The Iqta system was introduced by Iltutmish. ✅ (True)
- Timur invaded India during the reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq. ❌ (False – During the time of Nasiruddin Mahmud.)
- The Sayyid dynasty came after the Tughlaqs. ✅ (True)
- Feroz Tughlaq abolished Jaziya tax. ❌ (False – He imposed Jaziya even on Brahmins.)
- The Tughlaq dynasty was established by Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. ✅ (True)
- Competency-Based Questions
- Question: Analyze the impact of Alauddin Khalji’s market reforms on the general public.
Answer: Alauddin Khalji’s market reforms controlled prices of essential goods and ensured the availability of commodities to common people, especially his soldiers. This reduced inflation and brought economic stability. - Question: How did the policy of ‘Blood and Iron’ help Balban strengthen the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Through harsh punishments, suppression of rebellions, and a strong spy system, Balban centralized power and maintained strict law and order, thus ensuring political stability.
- High Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Questions
- Question: Do you think Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was ahead of his time? Give reasons.
Answer: Yes, he introduced ideas like shifting the capital and token currency, which show visionary thinking. However, due to poor planning and execution, his policies failed. - Question: Was Razia Sultan’s short reign a result of gender bias? Support your answer.
Answer: Yes, Razia faced opposition from Turkish nobles primarily because she was a woman, despite her competence. This highlights the gender bias of the medieval period.
- Short Answer Questions (2–3 sentences)
- What is the significance of the Battle of Panipat (1526)?
Answer: It marked the end of the Delhi Sultanate and led to the establishment of the Mughal Empire in India. - Who was the founder of the Slave Dynasty and what was his background?
Answer: Qutubuddin Aibek, a former slave of Muhammad Ghori, founded the Slave Dynasty in 1206 CE. - Mention two architectural contributions of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer: Qutub Minar and Alai Darwaza are notable examples of Indo-Islamic architecture. - What is meant by the Iqta system?
Answer: Under the Iqta system, land was granted to nobles (iqtadars) who collected revenue and maintained soldiers for the Sultan.
Long Answer Questions (60–70 words each)
- Discuss the contributions of Alauddin Khalji to the administrative and economic systems.
Answer: Alauddin Khalji centralized power, suppressed revolts, and introduced strict market control to stabilize the economy. He regulated the prices of goods and established separate markets for different commodities. His revenue reforms helped improve agricultural output and ensured fair taxation. These measures made his administration efficient and self-reliant. - Describe the cultural achievements of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer: The Delhi Sultanate saw the growth of Indo-Islamic culture, reflected in architecture like Qutub Minar and mosques. Persian became the court language, and literature, music, and calligraphy flourished. Sufi saints and Bhakti poets spread spiritual and social messages. The period also witnessed the fusion of Hindu and Islamic traditions. - What were the causes of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s administrative failures?
Answer: Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s ambitious schemes, like shifting the capital and introducing token currency, failed due to poor implementation and lack of public support. His policies were ahead of their time but were not practical. His harsh methods and lack of communication with the masses led to unrest and weakened the Sultanate.
Additional Questions and Answers – 02
Fill in the Blanks Questions and Answers
- Question: Muhammad Ghori invaded India and conquered ______, Sindh, and other states.
Answer: Muhammad Ghori invaded India and conquered Punjab, Sindh, and other states. - Question: In 1192 CE, Muhammad Ghori defeated ______ in the second Battle of Tarain.
Answer: In 1192 CE, Muhammad Ghori defeated Prithviraj Chauhan in the second Battle of Tarain. - Question: Qutubuddin Aibek established the ______ Dynasty in India.
Answer: Qutubuddin Aibek established the Slave Dynasty in India. - Question: Qutubuddin Aibek built the ______ Minar in Delhi.
Answer: Qutubuddin Aibek built the Qutub Minar in Delhi. - Question: Iltutmish introduced silver coins called ______ and copper coins called Jital.
Answer: Iltutmish introduced silver coins called Tanka and copper coins called Jital. - Question: ______ was the first and last muslim lady ruler during the medieval period.
Answer: Razia Sultan was the first and last muslim lady ruler during the medieval period. - Question: Ghiyasuddin Balban ended the power of the group of ______ Turkish nobles.
Answer: Ghiyasuddin Balban ended the power of the group of 40 Turkish nobles. - Question: Jalal-ud-din Khalji founded the ______ Dynasty in 1290 CE.
Answer: Jalal-ud-din Khalji founded the Khalji Dynasty in 1290 CE. - Question: Ala-ud-din Khalji fixed the maximum ______ price of goods of daily use.
Answer: Ala-ud-din Khalji fixed the maximum retail price of goods of daily use. - Question: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq founded the ______ Dynasty in 1320 CE.
Answer: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq founded the Tughlaq Dynasty in 1320 CE. - Question: Muhammad Tughlaq transferred his capital from Delhi to ______.
Answer: Muhammad Tughlaq transferred his capital from Delhi to Devgiri. - Question: Feroz Tughlaq imposed ______ on Hindus to appease the nobles and Ulemas.
Answer: Feroz Tughlaq imposed jazia on Hindus to appease the nobles and Ulemas. - Question: Sikandar Lodi founded the city of ______ in 1506 CE.
Answer: Sikandar Lodi founded the city of Agra in 1506 CE. - Question: Ibrahim Lodi was defeated by ______ in the Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE.
Answer: Ibrahim Lodi was defeated by Babur in the Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE. - Question: The Sultan was the head of the state and acted as the chief ______ and highest court of appeal.
Answer: The Sultan was the head of the state and acted as the chief executive and highest court of appeal. - Question: The head of the military administration was the ______-i-Arz.
Answer: The head of the military administration was the Diwan-i-Arz. - Question: Feroz Tughlaq had ______ slaves during the Sultanate period.
Answer: Feroz Tughlaq had 1,80,000 slaves during the Sultanate period. - Question: The main industries during the Sultanate period included spinning, weaving, and ______ production.
Answer: The main industries during the Sultanate period included spinning, weaving, and sugar - Question: Ziauddin Barani wrote ______-i-Ferozshahi during the Sultanate period.
Answer: Ziauddin Barani wrote Tarikh-i-Ferozshahi during the Sultanate period. - Question: The earliest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture are the Qutubi Masjid and ______ Minar.
Answer: The earliest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture are the Qutubi Masjid and Qutub
Multiple Choice Questions and Answers
- Question: Who invaded India and conquered Punjab and Sindh in the late 12th century?
a) Prithviraj Chauhan
b) Muhammad Ghori
c) Qutubuddin Aibek
d) Iltutmish
Answer: b) Muhammad Ghori - Question: Who defeated Muhammad Ghori in 1191 CE?
a) Jaichand
b) Prithviraj Chauhan
c) Qutubuddin Aibek
d) Ghiyasuddin Balban
Answer: b) Prithviraj Chauhan - Question: Which dynasty did Qutubuddin Aibek establish?
a) Khalji Dynasty
b) Tughlaq Dynasty
c) Slave Dynasty
d) Lodi Dynasty
Answer: c) Slave Dynasty - Question: What did Qutubuddin Aibek build in Delhi?
a) Tughlaqabad Fort
b) Qutub Minar
c) Alai Darwaza
d) Feroz Shah Kotla
Answer: b) Qutub Minar - Question: What coins did Iltutmish introduce?
a) Gold Dinar
b) Tanka and Jital
c) Silver Rupiya
d) Copper Dinar
Answer: b) Tanka and Jital - Question: Who was the first muslim lady ruler of the Delhi Sultanate?
a) Razia Sultan
b) Padmini
c) Quwwat-ul-Islam
d) Nasiruddin Mahmood
Answer: a) Razia Sultan - Question: Who ended the power of the group of 40 Turkish nobles?
a) Iltutmish
b) Ghiyasuddin Balban
c) Ala-ud-din Khalji
d) Feroz Tughlaq
Answer: b) Ghiyasuddin Balban - Question: Who founded the Khalji Dynasty in 1290 CE?
a) Jalal-ud-din Khalji
b) Ala-ud-din Khalji
c) Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
d) Sikandar Lodi
Answer: a) Jalal-ud-din Khalji - Question: What did Ala-ud-din Khalji fix to control the economy?
a) Land revenue
b) Maximum retail price
c) Military salaries
d) Tax rates
Answer: b) Maximum retail price - Question: Who founded the Tughlaq Dynasty in 1320 CE?
a) Muhammad Tughlaq
b) Feroz Tughlaq
c) Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq
d) Nasiruddin Tughlaq
Answer: c) Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq - Question: Where did Muhammad Tughlaq transfer his capital from Delhi?
a) Agra
b) Devgiri
c) Jaunpur
d) Lahore
Answer: b) Devgiri - Question: What tax did Feroz Tughlaq impose on Hindus?
a) Land tax
b) Jazia
c) Trade tax
d) Income tax
Answer: b) Jazia - Question: Which city did Sikandar Lodi found in 1506 CE?
a) Delhi
b) Agra
c) Ferozabad
d) Jaunpur
Answer: b) Agra - Question: Who defeated Ibrahim Lodi in the Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE?
a) Rana Sanga
b) Babur
c) Daulat Khan
d) Timur Lang
Answer: b) Babur - Question: Who was the head of the central government during the Sultanate period?
a) Wazir
b) Sultan
c) Quazi-ul-Quzaat
d) Diwan-i-Insha
Answer: b) Sultan - Question: Who headed the military administration during the Sultanate period?
a) Diwan-i-Wazarat
b) Diwan-i-Arz
c) Chief Barid
d) Vakil-i-Dar
Answer: b) Diwan-i-Arz - Question: How many slaves did Feroz Tughlaq have?
a) 1,00,000
b) 1,50,000
c) 1,80,000
d) 2,00,000
Answer: c) 1,80,000 - Question: What was a main industry during the Sultanate period?
a) Shipbuilding
b) Sugar production
c) Mining
d) Leather production
Answer: b) Sugar production - Question: Who wrote Tarikh-i-Ferozshahi?
a) Amir Khusro
b) Ziauddin Barani
c) Minahaz-us-Siraz
d) Malik Muhammad Jayasi
Answer: b) Ziauddin Barani - Question: What is an example of Indo-Islamic architecture from the Sultanate period?
a) Taj Mahal
b) Qutub Minar
c) Red Fort
d) Hawa Mahal
Answer: b) Qutub Minar
True/False Questions and Answers
- Question: Muhammad Ghori conquered Punjab and Sindh in the late 12th century.
Answer: True - Question: Prithviraj Chauhan defeated Muhammad Ghori in 1192 CE.
Answer: False (Ghori defeated Prithviraj in 1192 CE.) - Question: Qutubuddin Aibek established the Slave Dynasty.
Answer: True - Question: Qutubuddin Aibek built the Tughlaqabad Fort.
Answer: False (He built the Qutub Minar.) - Question: Iltutmish introduced Tanka and Jital coins.
Answer: True - Question: Razia Sultan was the first muslim lady ruler of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer: True - Question: Ghiyasuddin Balban supported the group of 40 Turkish nobles.
Answer: False (He ended their power.) - Question: Jalal-ud-din Khalji founded the Khalji Dynasty in 1290 CE.
Answer: True - Question: Ala-ud-din Khalji allowed nobles to amass wealth freely.
Answer: False (He taxed them heavily.) - Question: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq founded the Tughlaq Dynasty in 1320 CE.
Answer: True - Question: Muhammad Tughlaq transferred his capital from Delhi to Agra.
Answer: False (He transferred it to Devgiri.) - Question: Feroz Tughlaq imposed jazia on Hindus.
Answer: True - Question: Sikandar Lodi founded the city of Agra in 1506 CE.
Answer: True - Question: Ibrahim Lodi defeated Babur in the Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE.
Answer: False (Babur defeated Ibrahim Lodi.) - Question: The Sultan was the head of the state during the Sultanate period.
Answer: True - Question: The Diwan-i-Arz was in charge of state correspondence.
Answer: False (He headed military administration; Diwan-i-Insha handled correspondence.) - Question: Feroz Tughlaq had 1,80,000 slaves.
Answer: True - Question: Agriculture was the main industry during the Sultanate period.
Answer: False (Agriculture was the main occupation; industries included spinning and weaving.) - Question: Ziauddin Barani wrote Tarikh-i-Ferozshahi.
Answer: True - Question: Qutub Minar was completed by Ala-ud-din Khalji.
Answer: False (It was completed by Iltutmish.)
Competency-Based Questions and Answers
- Question: A student learns that Muhammad Ghori defeated Prithviraj Chauhan in 1192 CE. How did this event lead to the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Muhammad Ghori’s victory over Prithviraj Chauhan in 1192 CE at the second Battle of Tarain allowed him to capture Delhi and Ajmer, establishing Turkish control. He appointed Qutubuddin Aibek as his deputy, who, after Ghori’s death in 1206 CE, founded the Slave Dynasty, marking the beginning of the Delhi Sultanate, which introduced muslim rule and centralized governance in north India. - Question: You read that Qutubuddin Aibek was a patron of art and architecture. How did his contributions shape the cultural landscape of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Qutubuddin Aibek, as the founder of the Slave Dynasty, built the Qutub Minar and Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque in Delhi, introducing Indo-Islamic architecture. These structures, blending Indian and Islamic styles, set a precedent for future architectural developments in the Sultanate, fostering cultural synthesis, promoting artistic expression, and establishing Delhi as a center of art and architecture during the medieval period. - Question: A classmate notes that Iltutmish saved Delhi from Mongol invasions. How did his diplomatic strategies contribute to the stability of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Iltutmish diplomatically avoided Mongol invasions by refusing shelter to the Shah of Khwarizm, citing Delhi’s unsuitable climate, thus sparing the Sultanate from Chenghis Khan’s wrath. This ensured stability, allowing Iltutmish to consolidate power, defeat rivals like Yaldoz, and implement reforms like the Iqta system and Tanka coins, strengthening the Sultanate’s administrative and economic framework during a turbulent period. - Question: You learn that Razia Sultan ruled for only three and a half years. Why was her reign significant despite its short duration?
Answer: Razia Sultan’s reign (1236-1240 CE) was significant as she was the first and last muslim lady ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, showcasing women’s capability in governance. She crushed opponents, appointed non-Turk nobles, and led military expeditions, proving her administrative and military prowess. Her rule challenged gender norms, leaving a lasting legacy despite opposition from nobles that led to her short tenure and death. - Question: A teacher explains that Ala-ud-din Khalji introduced economic reforms. How did these reforms impact the economy and society of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Ala-ud-din Khalji’s economic reforms, like fixing maximum retail prices, introducing grain storage, and rationing, ensured affordability and food security, benefiting the poor. Market controllers prevented cheating, while heavy taxes on nobles curbed wealth accumulation. However, high taxes, especially on Hindus (50% land revenue), caused economic disparity, making life miserable for Hindus, reflecting a stratified society under his strict administrative control. - Question: During a discussion, you hear that Muhammad Tughlaq’s policies failed. How did his decisions, like transferring the capital, affect the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Muhammad Tughlaq’s transfer of the capital from Delhi to Devgiri aimed to control the Deccan but caused hardships due to the 950 km journey, with many dying en route. His absence led to Mongol attacks in the north, and the retreat back to Delhi after five years further strained resources, weakening the Sultanate, emptying the treasury, and contributing to unrest and administrative instability. - Question: You read that Feroz Tughlaq imposed jazia on Hindus. How did his policies reflect the religious dynamics of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Feroz Tughlaq’s imposition of jazia on Hindus and granting positions to Ulemas reflected a shift towards orthodox Islamic policies, reversing Ala-ud-din’s separation of religion from administration. This appeased muslim nobles but marginalized Hindus, reinforcing their economic backwardness and social exclusion, highlighting the religious tensions and muslim dominance in governance, which shaped the Sultanate’s societal structure and interfaith relations. - Question: A news report highlights the Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE. How did this event mark the end of the Delhi Sultanate and the beginning of Mughal rule?
Answer: The Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE saw Babur defeat Ibrahim Lodi, ending the Lodi Dynasty and the Delhi Sultanate. Invited by Daulat Khan, Babur’s victory marked the beginning of Mughal rule, shifting power from the Sultanate’s Turkish rulers to the Mughals, introducing a new era of centralized governance, cultural synthesis, and architectural grandeur, fundamentally transforming India’s political landscape. - Question: You learn that the Sultanate period saw social divisions. How did the caste system and religious policies impact the Hindu population?
Answer: The caste system in Hindu society led to exploitation of lower classes by higher ones, causing conversions to Islam, while religious policies like jazia under Feroz Tughlaq and temple destruction by Sikandar Lodi marginalized Hindus economically and socially. Practices like sati and bans on widow remarriage further oppressed Hindus, reflecting a society marked by inequality, exclusion, and religious tension during the Sultanate period. - Question: A teacher mentions the development of Indo-Islamic architecture. How did architectural contributions during the Delhi Sultanate reflect cultural integration?
Answer: Indo-Islamic architecture, seen in structures like Qutub Minar and Alai Darwaza, blended Indian craftsmanship with Islamic designs, such as arches and domes, reflecting cultural integration. Built by rulers like Qutubuddin Aibek and Ala-ud-din Khalji, these monuments symbolized the synthesis of Hindu and muslim artistic traditions, fostering a shared cultural identity that influenced architecture and societal interactions throughout the Sultanate period.
High Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) Questions and Answers
- Question: Why might the lack of unity among Indian rulers have facilitated the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate, and what does this suggest about the importance of political cohesion?
Answer: The lack of unity among Indian rulers, as seen in Prithviraj Chauhan’s defeat despite Rajput support, allowed Muhammad Ghori to conquer Delhi in 1192 CE, establishing the Sultanate. Rivalries, like Jaichand’s betrayal, weakened resistance. This suggests political cohesion is crucial for defense against external threats, as unity enables coordinated strategies, resource sharing, and resilience, preventing fragmentation and foreign domination. - Question: How did Iltutmish’s diplomatic strategies, like avoiding Mongol invasions, contribute to the long-term stability of the Delhi Sultanate, and what lessons can be drawn about diplomacy in governance?
Answer: Iltutmish’s diplomacy, by refusing shelter to the Shah of Khwarizm, avoided Mongol invasions, preserving Delhi’s resources and stability. This allowed him to consolidate power, introduce reforms like the Iqta system, and defeat rivals, strengthening the Sultanate. It teaches that strategic diplomacy in governance can avert conflicts, prioritize stability, and provide time for internal reforms, ensuring a state’s longevity amidst external pressures. - Question: Why might Razia Sultan’s reign, though short, have been a significant milestone in the history of the Delhi Sultanate, and what does it reveal about gender roles in medieval India?
Answer: Razia Sultan’s reign (1236-1240 CE) was significant as the first muslim lady ruler, proving women’s administrative and military capabilities by crushing opponents and leading expeditions. Her rule challenged medieval India’s patriarchal norms, where women were marginalized, revealing the potential for gender equality in governance, though opposition from nobles highlights the entrenched resistance to female leadership, reflecting deep-seated societal biases of the time. - Question: How did Ala-ud-din Khalji’s economic reforms, such as price controls, reflect his administrative priorities, and what do they suggest about the balance between state control and societal welfare?
Answer: Ala-ud-din Khalji’s price controls, grain storage, and rationing prioritized economic stability and food security, ensuring affordability for the masses while heavy taxes on nobles prevented revolts, reflecting a focus on centralized control. This suggests a balance where state control ensures welfare but can burden certain groups, like Hindus with high taxes, highlighting the need for equitable policies to maintain social harmony and economic justice. - Question: Why might Muhammad Tughlaq’s failed policies, like the token currency, have weakened the Delhi Sultanate, and what does this indicate about the importance of practical governance?
Answer: Muhammad Tughlaq’s token currency failed due to counterfeit coins, draining the treasury, while his capital transfer to Devgiri caused hardships, inviting Mongol attacks and unrest. These failures weakened the Sultanate by depleting resources and fostering rebellions. This indicates practical governance, with feasible policies and public welfare in mind, is crucial to maintain economic stability, public trust, and political strength in a diverse empire. - Question: How did the religious policies of rulers like Feroz Tughlaq and Sikandar Lodi shape the social dynamics of the Delhi Sultanate, and what does this reveal about the role of religion in governance?
Answer: Feroz Tughlaq’s jazia and Sikandar Lodi’s temple destruction marginalized Hindus, reinforcing muslim dominance and social divides, as Hindus faced economic hardship and exclusion. This reveals religion’s pivotal role in governance, where rulers used faith to consolidate power among muslim elites, often at the expense of communal harmony, highlighting the challenges of governing a religiously diverse society without inclusive policies. - Question: Why might the Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE have marked a significant turning point in Indian history, and what does it suggest about the vulnerability of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: The Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE, where Babur defeated Ibrahim Lodi, ended the Delhi Sultanate, ushering in Mughal rule, shifting India’s political landscape with new governance and culture. The Sultanate’s vulnerability, due to internal rebellions and Lodi’s failure to unify nobles, suggests that internal discord and lack of adaptability can lead to the downfall of even established empires, necessitating strong leadership and cohesion. - Question: How did the development of Indo-Islamic architecture during the Delhi Sultanate reflect the cultural synthesis of the period, and what does this suggest about the impact of muslim rule on Indian culture?
Answer: Indo-Islamic architecture, like Qutub Minar and Alai Darwaza, blended Indian craftsmanship with Islamic elements, reflecting cultural synthesis under muslim rule. This integration, seen in arches and domes, suggests muslim rule enriched Indian culture by fostering artistic collaboration, creating a shared heritage that influenced future architecture, and highlighting the potential for cultural exchange to bridge diverse traditions in a multi-ethnic society. - Question: Why might the social inequalities of the Delhi Sultanate, such as the caste system and jazia, have led to conversions to Islam, and what does this indicate about the interplay between religion and social structure?
Answer: The caste system’s exploitation and jazia under rulers like Feroz Tughlaq marginalized Hindus, prompting conversions to Islam to escape social and economic oppression. This indicates religion and social structure are interlinked, where discriminatory policies can drive religious change, reflecting how power dynamics and societal inequalities shape cultural transformations, often deepening communal divides while offering marginalized groups an alternative social identity. - Question: How did the economic policies of the Delhi Sultanate, like those of Ala-ud-din Khalji and Feroz Tughlaq, impact agriculture and trade, and what does this suggest about the role of state intervention in economic development?
Answer: Ala-ud-din Khalji’s price controls stabilized markets but burdened Hindus with high taxes, while Feroz Tughlaq’s canals boosted agriculture, and trade flourished with exports like textiles. This suggests state intervention can drive economic growth by ensuring stability and infrastructure, but inequitable policies, like heavy taxation, can alienate communities, highlighting the need for balanced interventions to foster inclusive development and economic prosperity.
Short Questions and Answers
- Question: Who conquered Punjab and Sindh in the late 12th century?
Answer: Muhammad Ghori. - Question: Who defeated Muhammad Ghori in 1191 CE?
Answer: Prithviraj Chauhan. - Question: Which dynasty did Qutubuddin Aibek establish?
Answer: Slave Dynasty. - Question: What did Qutubuddin Aibek build in Delhi?
Answer: Qutub Minar. - Question: What coins did Iltutmish introduce?
Answer: Tanka and Jital. - Question: Who was the first muslim lady ruler of the Delhi Sultanate?
Answer: Razia Sultan. - Question: Who ended the power of the 40 Turkish nobles?
Answer: Ghiyasuddin Balban. - Question: Who founded the Khalji Dynasty?
Answer: Jalal-ud-din Khalji. - Question: What did Ala-ud-din Khalji fix for goods?
Answer: Maximum retail price. - Question: Who founded the Tughlaq Dynasty?
Answer: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq. - Question: Where did Muhammad Tughlaq transfer his capital?
Answer: Devgiri. - Question: What tax did Feroz Tughlaq impose on Hindus?
Answer: Jazia. - Question: Which city did Sikandar Lodi found?
Answer: Agra. - Question: Who defeated Ibrahim Lodi in 1526 CE?
Answer: Babur. - Question: Who was the head of the state during the Sultanate?
Answer: Sultan. - Question: Who headed the military administration?
Answer: Diwan-i-Arz. - Question: How many slaves did Feroz Tughlaq have?
Answer: 1,80,000. - Question: What was a main industry in the Sultanate period?
Answer: Sugar production. - Question: Who wrote Tarikh-i-Ferozshahi?
Answer: Ziauddin Barani. - Question: What is an example of Indo-Islamic architecture?
Answer: Qutub Minar.
Long Questions and Answers (60-70 Words)
- Question: Describe how Muhammad Ghori’s victories led to the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer: Muhammad Ghori’s victory over Prithviraj Chauhan in 1192 CE at Tarain allowed him to capture Delhi and Ajmer, establishing Turkish control. He later defeated Jaichand in 1194 CE, consolidating power. Appointing Qutubuddin Aibek as deputy, Ghori laid the foundation for the Slave Dynasty after his death in 1206 CE, marking the start of the Delhi Sultanate, introducing muslim rule in north India. - Question: Explain Qutubuddin Aibek’s contributions to art and architecture in the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer: Qutubuddin Aibek, founder of the Slave Dynasty, built the Qutub Minar and Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque in Delhi, and Dhai Din Ka Jhopra in Ajmer, introducing Indo-Islamic architecture. These structures blended Indian and Islamic styles, promoting cultural synthesis. His patronage of literature, with scholars like Hasan Azmi in his court, enriched Delhi’s cultural landscape, setting a foundation for artistic development in the Sultanate period. - Question: Discuss how Iltutmish strengthened the Delhi Sultanate through his administrative reforms.
Answer: Iltutmish strengthened the Delhi Sultanate by introducing the Iqta system for efficient administration, dividing the empire into provinces, and issuing Tanka and Jital coins to standardize currency. He organized the Chaliha group of 40 nobles to consolidate power, defeated rivals like Yaldoz, and diplomatically avoided Mongol invasions, ensuring stability. His reforms centralized authority, improved governance, and laid a strong foundation for the Sultanate’s growth. - Question: Describe the significance of Razia Sultan’s reign in the history of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer: Razia Sultan’s reign (1236-1240 CE) was significant as the first muslim lady ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, showcasing women’s leadership by crushing opponents and leading military expeditions. She appointed non-Turk nobles, challenging norms, and proved her administrative prowess. Despite her short rule, her legacy highlighted gender potential in governance, though opposition from nobles led to her death, reflecting medieval India’s patriarchal constraints. - Question: Explain Ala-ud-din Khalji’s economic reforms and their impact on the Delhi Sultanate’s society.
Answer: Ala-ud-din Khalji fixed maximum retail prices, introduced grain storage, and rationing, ensuring affordability, while market controllers prevented cheating. Heavy taxes on nobles curbed wealth, but high land revenue (50%) burdened Hindus, causing economic disparity. These reforms stabilized the economy, benefiting the poor, but deepened social divides, reflecting a society where state control prioritized stability over equity, impacting Hindus’ socio-economic status negatively. - Question: Discuss the failures of Muhammad Tughlaq’s policies and their impact on the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer: Muhammad Tughlaq’s policies, like transferring the capital to Devgiri, caused hardships, with many dying during the 950 km journey, and invited Mongol attacks. His token currency failed due to counterfeits, draining the treasury, while high taxes in Doab led to barren lands. These failures weakened the Sultanate, causing unrest, economic loss, and rebellions, undermining its stability and highlighting the need for practical governance. - Question: Describe Feroz Tughlaq’s reforms and their impact on the Delhi Sultanate’s society.
Answer: Feroz Tughlaq reduced land revenue, built canals, and opened markets, improving agriculture and trade, benefiting peasants. He founded cities like Jaunpur, promoted education, and translated Sanskrit texts into Persian, fostering cultural growth. However, imposing jazia on Hindus and favoring Ulemas marginalized non-muslims, deepening social divides, reflecting a policy of religious appeasement that strengthened his rule but strained communal harmony in the Sultanate. - Question: Explain how the Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE marked the end of the Delhi Sultanate.
Answer: The Battle of Panipat in 1526 CE saw Babur defeat Ibrahim Lodi, ending the Lodi Dynasty and Delhi Sultanate. Invited by Daulat Khan, Babur’s victory marked the rise of Mughal rule, shifting power from the Sultanate’s Turkish rulers to the Mughals. This transition introduced new governance and cultural influences, fundamentally altering India’s political landscape and concluding the Sultanate’s 320-year rule. - Question: Discuss the social inequalities during the Delhi Sultanate and their impact on Hindus.
Answer: The Delhi Sultanate’s caste system exploited lower Hindu classes, while jazia and temple destruction by rulers like Sikandar Lodi marginalized Hindus economically and socially. Practices like sati and bans on widow remarriage oppressed Hindu women, leading to conversions to Islam. These inequalities deepened communal divides, reflecting a society where muslim dominance and Hindu exclusion shaped social dynamics, often at the cost of harmony. - Question: Describe the development of Indo-Islamic architecture during the Delhi Sultanate and its cultural significance.
Answer: Indo-Islamic architecture during the Delhi Sultanate, seen in Qutub Minar by Qutubuddin Aibek and Alai Darwaza by Ala-ud-din Khalji, blended Indian and Islamic styles, using arches and domes. This synthesis, continued in structures like Tughlaqabad Fort, reflected cultural integration, showcasing how muslim rule enriched Indian art, fostered collaboration, and created a shared heritage that influenced architectural traditions and cultural identity.