The Mughal Empire

Overview

• The Mughal Empire, an Islamic empire in the Indian subcontinent, lasted from 1526 to 1707.
• Different from Safavids and Ottomans: ruled a primarily Hindu population.
• Allowed for a unique blend of Islamic and Hindu cultures and practices.

Founding and Early Expansion

• Babur: First Mughal emperor.
  • Origin: ruler of Farghana (modern-day Uzbekistan) at age 12 in 1495.
  • Exiled by family in 1502, sought new lands, establishing himself in Kabul (Afghanistan).
  • Entered India via the Khyber Pass and most of the Indian subcontinent by 1526.
  • Focused on expansion, not consolidation.
  • Son driven out briefly by rebels but regained control by 1555.

Akbar the Great

• Akbar (1556-1605): Grandson of Babur, came to power after father’s accidental death.
  • Extended the empire through warfare and diplomacy.
  • Recognized the Hindu majority (~80%) and adopted a policy of religious tolerance.
  • Removed taxes on non-Muslims, incorporated Hindus into political and military elite.
  • Funded public works for all religions, built Hindu temples, mosques, churches.
  • Built a non-denominational house of worship for interfaith dialogues.
  • Promoted a State cult emphasizing loyalty to state and virtue.
  • Aimed to unify diverse religious practices to improve empire stability.
  • Sought to reform Hindu practices regarding women's rights (e.g., remarriage, discouraging sati).

Opposition to Akbar's Policies

• Criticism by the Ulama: Religious scholars who opposed Akbar's syncretic approach.
  • Advocated for the restoration of pure, authentic Islam.
  • Objected to saints' worship, animal sacrifices, Hindu festivals.
  • Believed women introduced impurities into Islam.
  • Pushed for reimposition of Sharia and removal of non-Muslims from office.

Reversal under Aurangzeb

• Aurangzeb (1658-1707): Contrasted Akbar's policies.
  • Imposed Muslim supremacy; banned practices like sati and courtly music/dance.
  • Suppressed gambling, drinking, prostitution.
  • Destroyed Hindu temples, censored public morals according to Islamic law.
  • Heavy taxation to fund wars antagonized Hindu majority.
  • Actions led to opposition movements, weakening the empire.

Decline and Legacy

• Aurangzeb's religious intolerance and taxation policies fractured the empire.
• Weakening Mughal power opened the way for British takeover in the 18th century.