The Turkish Invaders

A chapter titled “The Turkish Invaders” in an Indian history textbook for Class 7 (ICSE board) likely focuses on the early Turkic incursions and the subsequent establishment of Turkic rule in parts of India, primarily starting around the 10th century CE. It would likely cover the following key aspects:

• Background of the Turks: An introduction to the Turkic people, their origins in Central Asia, their conversion to Islam, and their military prowess.
• Early Invasions (Pre-Sultanate Period): This might discuss the raids and incursions by figures like Mahmud of Ghazni in the early 11th century. The focus here would be on the nature of these invasions (primarily for plunder), their impact on North India, and the resistance faced.
• Muhammad of Ghori: This section is crucial. It would detail Muhammad of Ghori’s more sustained and politically motivated invasions in the late 12th century. Key battles like the Battles of Tarain (against Prithviraj Chauhan) and their significance in establishing Turkic dominance would be highlighted.
• Establishment of the Delhi Sultanate: The chapter would likely explain how, after Muhammad of Ghori’s death, his general Qutb-ud-din Aibak established the Delhi Sultanate, marking the beginning of Turkic rule in a significant portion of North India. The early dynasties of the Sultanate (Slave/Mamluk Dynasty) might be briefly introduced.
• Reasons for Success: The chapter might analyze the factors that contributed to the success of the Turkish invaders, such as their superior cavalry, military organization, and the political fragmentation within India at the time.
• Impact of the Invasions: The initial impact of these invasions on Indian society, economy, and culture (including destruction and plunder) would likely be discussed.

Time To Learn

I. Fill in the blanks:

1. Mahmud Ghazni invaded India to ____________  its wealth.

Ans: 17 times

2. Muhammad Ghori defeated ______________ in the second battle of Tarain.

Ans: Prithviraj 

3. ____________ , spent 10 years in India and wrote a book _____________ .

Ans: Alberuni, Kitab- ul-Hind.

4. Firdausi wrote a famous epic named _____________ .

Ans: Shahnama.

5. Mahmud Ghazni plundered ____________  in 1025 AD

Ans: Somnath temple

II. Match Column A with Column B:

Ans:

      Column A                                                     Column B

III. State whether the following statements are True or False:

1. Muhammad Ghori established the Muslim rule in India.
   True

2. Mahmud was interested in setting up an empire in India.
   False. 
   Mahmud was interested in wealth rather than setting up an empire in India.

3. The Rajputs united to face the Turks or Muslims but failed.
   False.

4. Jaichand defeated Muhammad Ghori.
   False.

Jaichand was defeated by Muhammad Ghori.

5. Firdausi wrote Kitab-ul-Hind.
   False.

 Alberuni wrote Kitab-ul-Hind.

IV. Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1.
Mention three most important invasions of Mahmud of Ghazni.
Ans:

Mahmud of Ghazni’s incursions into India, though numerous, are often remembered for their significant impact and the vast wealth he plundered. One of his most notable campaigns was the invasion of Somnath in 1025 CE. Targeting the renowned and wealthy Somnath Temple in Gujarat, a major Hindu pilgrimage site, Mahmud’s forces sacked the temple, seizing immense riches in the form of precious jewels and gold. The destruction of the temple’s idol also carried significant symbolic weight. Another important invasion was that of Thanesar in 1014 CE. This wealthy town, a prominent religious center in present-day Haryana, was also targeted for its riches.Finally, the campaign against Mathura and Kannauj in 1018-1019 CE targeted two politically and culturally significant cities in North India. Mathura, a major religious hub, suffered the destruction of numerous temples and the seizure of vast wealth, while the fall of Kannauj, a key political center, weakened regional powers and exposed the vulnerability of the northern Indian kingdoms to further Turkic incursions. These three invasions exemplify Mahmud’s primary objective of acquiring wealth to support his empire in Central Asia, often at the expense of Indian kingdoms and religious sites.

Question 2.

When and between whom were the Battles of Tarain fought?

Ans:

Key Factors in the Ghurid Victory

Muhammad of Ghor’s success in the Second Battle of Tarain can be attributed to several strategic advantages he held over the Rajputs. After his defeat in the first battle a year earlier, he returned with a larger, more disciplined army. He also employed a superior military strategy.

• Deception and Feigned Retreat: Muhammad of Ghor used a deceptive tactic where he feigned a retreat, luring the pursuing Rajput forces into a disorganized chase. This tactic, unfamiliar to the Rajput military ethos, caused their army to break formation, making them vulnerable to a sudden counterattack by fresh Ghurid cavalry reserves.
• Superior Cavalry Tactics: The Ghurid army consisted of highly mobile mounted archers and heavy cavalry. Their use of light cavalry to harass the enemy and heavy cavalry for a decisive charge proved more effective than the Rajput reliance on war elephants and traditional frontal assaults.
• Lack of Rajput Unity: While Prithviraj Chauhan led a large army, he lacked a unified command with other Rajput rulers. His previous victory in the First Battle of Tarain may have also led to a false sense of security, causing him to underestimate the determination and strategic acumen of his opponent.

Consequences and the Rise of Muslim Rule

The defeat of Prithviraj Chauhan was a major disaster for the Rajputs and had profound political and social consequences.

• Establishment of the Delhi Sultanate: Following the victory, Muhammad of Ghor’s general, Qutb-ud-din Aibak, was left in charge of the Ghurid territories in India. He consolidated power, and upon Muhammad of Ghor’s death in 1206, Aibak established the Delhi Sultanate. This marked the beginning of a new era of Muslim rule that would last for centuries.
• Decline of Rajput Power: The battle led to the significant decline of Rajput power in North India. While some Rajput kingdoms continued to exist, their political dominance in the region was shattered, paving the way for further Muslim conquests.
• Cultural and Administrative Changes: The new rule brought with it new administrative practices, architectural styles, and cultural influences that shaped the region. The establishment of the Delhi Sultanate also integrated the Indian subcontinent into a wider network of Islamic social and economic networks.

Question 3.

How were the raids of Mahmud Ghazni different from the raids of Muhammad Ghori?

Ans:

Mahmud of Ghazni’s raids: Primarily for plunder to fund his Central Asian empire; hit-and-run; less focused on permanent rule or widespread conversion; exposed Indian weaknesses.

Muhammad of Ghori’s raids: Aimed at establishing a permanent empire in India; involved conquest and governance; more explicit goal of spreading Muslim rule; led to the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate.

V. Give Reason why:

Question 1.
Mahmud of Ghazni attacked India
Ans:

Mahmud of Ghazni attached India as he was in wealth rather than setting up an empire in the Indian subcontinent.

Question 2.
Turks succeeded against Rajputs
Ans:

Turks succeeded against Rajputs due to:

• Superior military: Mobile cavalry, skilled archers, flexible tactics, centralized command.
• Rajput disunity: Internal rivalries, fragmented leadership, lack of strategic vision.
• Social factors: Rigid caste system potentially limited military effectiveness.

VI. Guess who it is:

1. wrote a book Kitab-ul-Hind.
   Ans. Alberuni.

2. First Turkish invader to enter India north-west side.
   Ans. Mahumd of Ghazni.

3. Beautified his city the most beautiful one, with the wealth gained in India.
   Ans. Mahmud of Ghazni.

4. Laid the foundation of Turkish rule in India.
   Ans. Muhammad Ghori.

5. Invaded India 17 times.
   Ans. Mahmud of Ghazni.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS
(THE TURKISH INVADERS)

A. Fill in the blanks:

1. Mahmud of Ghazni invaded India ____________  times in the course of __________ years

Ans: seventeen , twenty five

2. Mahmud’s raids exposed the ____________ of the northern states and paved the way for the ____________ of India.

Ans:  weakness , conquest

3. Qutbuddin Aibak took control of Muhammad Ghori’s ____________ possessions and laid the foundation of the ____________________ .

Ans: Indian , Delhi Sultanate.

4.  Iltutmish defeated the Rajput rulers of ________ ,________ , _______ , and ___________ and brought the whole of North India upto the river Narmada under his control.

Ans: Ujjain, Ranthambore, Malwa, and Gwalior

5. The ________________ recognized Iltutmish as the sovereign of India. He was succeeded by ________________ .

Ans: Caliph of Baghdad , his daughter Razia.

B. Match the following:

Answer:

C. Choose the correct answer:

1. Mahmud of Ghazni was a powerful/weak/inefficient
   Ans. 

Mahmud of Ghazni’s power stemmed from several key factors. His military prowess was exceptional, allowing him to conduct numerous successful campaigns and establish a vast empire. He was also the first ruler to adopt the title of ‘Sultan,’ signifying his supreme authority and independence from the Caliphate. The consolidation of his rule over conquered territories, combined with significant economic gains from plundering and taxing these regions, fueled his military expansion and enriched his treasury. These elements—military might, a new and powerful title, a unified empire, and immense wealth—collectively made him a formidable and influential figure of his time.

2. Mahmud of Ghazni was interested in territorial expansion in South Asia/Central Asia/West Asia.
   Ans. 

Mahmud of Ghazni prioritized building his empire in Central Asia, with his capital located there. His incursions into India were primarily for plunder and wealth, which he used to finance his Central Asian campaigns and consolidate his power base, rather than for establishing permanent territorial rule in South Asia.

3. Firdausi was a great mathematician/historian/poet.
   Ans. 

Firdausi was a great poet.

4. Nasiruddin Mahmud was a weak and inexperienced ruler and the affairs of the state were managed by in India.
   False.
   Correct: Muhammad Ghori was the founder of the Turkish rule in India.

5. Muhammad Ghori was as great a military leader as Mahmud of Ghazni.
   False.
   Muhammad Ghori was not as great a military leader as Mahmud of Ghazni.

6. BaIbaflJJftugmLçJ,q?qj Sultan on his behalf.
   Ans.

Nasiruddin Mahmud was a weak and inexperienced ruler and the affairs of the state were managed by Balban on his behalf.

7. ¡llutntish/Qu(buddj,, Aibak/Balban never smiled or allowed others to laugh or joke in his court.
   Ans. 

Balban never smiled or allowed others to laugh or joke in his court.

D. State whether the following are true or false

1. The kingdoms of Ghazni and (Thor were established by the Abbasids.
   False. 

Correct: The kingdoms of (ihazni and Ghor were established by the Turks.

2. During Mahmud’s time, North India was divided and there WaS no unity.
   True.

3. Iltutmish failed to crush the power of the governor of Bengal.
   False.

Correct:Iltutmish crush the power of the governor of Bengal.

4. Razia Sultan was brave, intelligent and just.
   False. 

Correct: Razia Sultan was brave, intelligent and just woman.

5. Balban made the monarchy weak and dependent on the nobles.
   False.

Correct : l3alban made the monarchy absolute and all powerful.

6. Sultan Mahmud annexed Punjab to create a gateway to India for future invasions.
   True.

7. Mahmud of Ghaznj was the founder of the Turkish Ñle in India.
   False.

Correct: Muhammad Ghori was the founder of the Turkish rule in India.

8. Muhammad Ghori was as great a military leader as Mahmud of Ghazni.
   False.

Corrent:Muhammad Ghori was not as great a military leader as Mahmud of Ghazni.

E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:

Question 1.
What happened to the Abbasid Caliphate by the 9th century CE?
Ans:

By the 9th century CE, the once powerful and unified Abbasid Caliphate had significantly declined. It fractured into numerous independent or semi-independent states ruled by regional governors and local dynasties. The Caliphs in Baghdad lost much of their temporal power and became largely figureheads, with real control often held by Turkish military commanders and autonomous rulers in various provinces. This fragmentation was fueled by political instability, the rise of regional powers, economic decline, and internal conflicts.

Question 2.

Name the author of the great epic Shahnama.

Ans:

The author of the great epic Shahnama (also known as the Shahnameh or “Book of Kings”) is the renowned Persian poet Ferdowsi (also spelled Firdawsi or Ferdusi). He completed this monumental work around 1010 CE.

Question 3.

What is the significance of the defeat of Prithviraj in the Second Battle of Tarain?

Ans:

The defeat of Prithviraj Chauhan in the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192 CE was a pivotal moment that ushered in a new era for North India. This loss was not just a military setback for the Rajput Confederacy; it marked the beginning of sustained Muslim rule in the region. Unlike the earlier, more transient raids focused on plunder, Muhammad of Ghor’s victory provided a foothold for the establishment of a lasting political entity. Following this crucial win, Ghor appointed his general Qutb-ud-din Aibak to govern the newly conquered territories, which eventually led to the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate. This Sultanate would go on to rule a significant portion of India for centuries, fundamentally altering its political, social, and cultural landscape. The defeat at Tarain significantly weakened the Rajput resistance and opened up the fertile Gangetic plains for further Turkic expansion, ultimately shaping the course of medieval Indian history and leaving a lasting impact on the subcontinent’s religious and cultural fabric.

Question 4.

Who did Muhammad Ghori appoint as his viceroy?

Ans:

Qutb-ud-din Aibak was the general whom Muhammad Ghori appointed as his viceroy to manage his Indian conquests after the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192 CE.

Question 5.

For how many years did the sultans of Delhi rule the country?

Ans:

300 years.

Question 6.

Mention one important reason for the decline of Buddhism in India after the Turkish invasion.

Ans:

A significant contributor to the decline of Buddhism in India after the Turkish invasions was the physical destruction of major Buddhist monastic and educational institutions, such as Nalanda and Vikramashila. These centers were vital for the preservation, study, and dissemination of Buddhist teachings, as well as the training of monks and scholars. Their violent destruction by the invaders led to the dispersal of the monastic community, the loss of critical texts and resources, and a severe disruption of the organized practice of Buddhism in India. This devastation, combined with other long-term trends, played a crucial role in its eventual decline in its birthplace.

Question 7.

Name the founder of the Turkish kingdom in India.

Ans:

While Muhammad of Ghor laid the groundwork for Turkish rule in India through his conquests, the founder of the independent Turkish kingdom in India, known as the Delhi Sultanate, is generally considered to be his viceroy, Qutb-ud-din Aibak.

After Muhammad of Ghor’s assassination in 1206 CE, Aibak, who was in charge of the Indian territories, asserted his independence and established his own rule in Delhi, marking the beginning of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mamluk Dynasty.

Question 8.

Why was Qutbuddin known as ‘lakhbaksh’?

Ans:

Qutb-ud-din Aibak was known as ‘Lakhbaksh’ due to his reputation for immense generosity and liberal distribution of wealth. The term ‘Lakhbaksh’ literally translates to “giver of lakhs”, with a lakh being one hundred thousand.  

He earned this title because he was known to bestow large sums of money and gifts upon his courtiers, soldiers, and the general populace. This reputation for open-handedness and charitable giving was a notable characteristic of his reign and contributed to the popular image of Qutb-ud-din Aibak.

Question 9.

How did Iltutmish save India from the threat of a Mongol invasion?

Ans:

Iltutmish saved India from a major Mongol invasion by diplomatically refusing asylum to Jalal-ud-din Mingburnu, whom Genghis Khan was pursuing. This strategic move prevented a direct Mongol attack on the young and vulnerable Delhi Sultanate, allowing it to consolidate its power.

Question 10.

Why did Iltutmish nominate his daughter Razia as his successor?

Ans:

Iltutmish favored Razia as his heir due to his assessment of her superior ruling abilities compared to his other children. Her effective governance of Delhi during his absence reportedly solidified his decision.

Question 11.

Give any one example to show that Mahmud was a patron of learning.

Ans:

A clear instance of Mahmud of Ghazni’s support for intellectual endeavors is his relationship with the celebrated scholar Al-Biruni. Mahmud facilitated Al-Biruni’s stay in Ghazni and tasked him with researching and writing about the Indian subcontinent. The resulting comprehensive work, “Kitab-ul-Hind”, offers significant insights into the history and culture of India during that era, showcasing Mahmud’s role in fostering scholarly inquiry and the preservation of knowledge.

Question 12.

Name the famous Rajput ruler of Delhi and Ajmer.

Ans:

The renowned Rajput ruler who held sway over both Delhi and Ajmer was Prithviraj Chauhan III. This 12th-century king from the Chauhan dynasty initially inherited Ajmer but later extended his authority to include Delhi, establishing himself as a significant power in the region before his defeat against Muhammad of Ghor in 1192 CE.

Question 13.

Mention one important reason for the victory of Muhammad Ghori in the Second Battle of Tarain.

Ans:

One important reason for the victory of Muhammad Ghori in the Second Battle of Tarain was his strategic use of a feigned retreat combined with a well-disciplined and mobile cavalry, including mounted archers.

Ghori’s forces were divided into five units. Four units were instructed to feign retreat when attacked, exhausting the Rajput army’s elephants and cavalry in pursuit. The fifth unit, held in reserve, then launched a decisive counter-attack when the Rajput forces were disorganized and tired. This tactic, which was different from the frontal assault in the First Battle of Tarain, effectively broke the Rajput lines and led to Prithviraj Chauhan’s defeat.

F. Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1.
How did Sultan Mahmud transform his capital, Ghazni? How do we know he was a patron of art and learning?
Ans:

Mahmud transformed Ghazni into a grand city with lavish buildings and attracted scholars and artists using his wealth. We know he supported art and learning because of his association with Al-Biruni (commissioning the “Kitab-ul-Hind”) and Ferdowsi (patronizing the “Shahnama”), as well as historical accounts of his brilliant court and establishment of colleges.

Question 2.

Discuss the (a) causes and (b) results of the First and Second Battles of Tarain.

Ans:

(a) Reasons:

• First Battle (1191): Muhammad of Ghor sought to expand his empire, seizing Bathinda, which Prithviraj Chauhan defended against Ghurid dominance.
• Second Battle (1192): Driven by revenge and imperial aims, Ghori rebuilt his forces, while Prithviraj was less prepared for the renewed conflict.

(b) Outcomes:

• First Battle (1191): The Rajput forces triumphed, inflicting significant losses on the Ghurids, who retreated (a strategic oversight by Prithviraj).
• Second Battle (1192): The Ghurids won decisively, leading to Prithviraj’s demise, the establishment of Turkish rule, the rise of the Delhi Sultanate, the weakening of Rajput power, and the opening of the Gangetic plains to further conquest.

Question 3.

Give any five reasons to prove that Iltutmish was a shrewd, clever and capable ruler.

Ans:

1. Consolidated the fragile Sultanate by eliminating rivals and establishing central authority.
2. Strategically avoided a Mongol invasion through diplomacy.
3. Gained legitimacy from the Abbasid Caliphate.
4. Created a loyal and effective bureaucracy and military (the “Forty”).
5. Introduced key reforms like coinage and infrastructure development.

Question 4.

Discuss the important developments that took place during the reign of Razia Sultan.

Ans:

In her brief but impactful reign as the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, Razia Sultan initiated several significant developments. Notably, she defied societal norms by appearing in public without the veil and adopting male attire to assert her authority. She also championed meritocracy by appointing individuals to key positions based on their competence rather than their lineage, a move that challenged the dominance of the Turkish nobility. Razia further solidified her sovereignty by issuing coinage bearing her own titles. Her rule was also characterized by a focus on effective governance and the dispensation of justice, with reports of her holding open courts and personally overseeing administrative affairs. Continuing the tradition of her father, Iltutmish, she also fostered learning and culture through the establishment of educational institutions and the patronage of scholars. Although her progressive reign was ultimately curtailed by the resistance of the powerful Turkish nobles who opposed a female ruler, Razia’s brief time on the throne was marked by bold steps that challenged conventions and showcased her capabilities as an effective sovereign.

G Picture study:

This is the picture of a Turkish invader who was involved in the Battles of Tarain.

Question 1.
Identify the person in the picture.
Ans:
Muhammad Ghori.

Question 2.
Why did he invade India?
Ans:

To provide a precise explanation regarding the motivations for invading India, it is essential to identify the specific historical figure in question. Are you inquiring about Mahmud of Ghazni or Muhammad of Ghori? Their aims and the character of their Indian incursions were notably distinct.

Question 3.

The Battles of Tarain laid the foundations of Turkish rule in North India. Do you agree? Why?

Ans:

Indeed, the Battles of Tarain, particularly the second, were crucial in establishing Turkish rule in North India. Muhammad of Ghor’s triumph fractured Rajput dominance, enabled Turkic political authority over key areas like Delhi and Ajmer, led to Aibak’s governance as viceroy, and subsequently the Delhi Sultanate, facilitating further Turkic expansion into the Gangetic plains.

Question 4.

Explain the causes of the success of the Turkish invaders against the Rajputs.

Ans:

The Turkish invaders succeeded against the Rajputs due to:

• Political disunity among Rajput kingdoms.
• Superior Turkish military tactics (mobile cavalry, mounted archers, feigned retreats).
• Gradual adoption of advanced military technology.
• Potentially more flexible social structure for military recruitment.
• Ideological motivation (expansion of Islam for some).
• Clearer long-term strategic goals of establishing dominion.