Maratha Empire

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Joppenshivaji

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Shivaji British Museum

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Maharani Tarabai of Karvir

Painting of Malhar Rao Holkar (alt. spelt as 'Malharrao Holkar) and Peshwa Bajirao I seated together, circa 18th century

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Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj hunting with his Peshwa Balaji Bajirao

Maratha Empire

The Maratha Empire or the Maratha Confederacy was a power that dominated a large portion of the Indian subcontinent in the 17th through the 18th centuries. Known for its unique military tactics and expansive administrative practices, the Maratha Empire played a crucial role in ending the Mughal Empire's dominance in India. It was established by Shivaji Bhonsle, who is revered as one of the greatest warriors and administrators in Indian history. The empire's expansion and consolidation of power significantly influenced the political landscape of India, leading up to the British colonial era.

History

The foundation of the Maratha Empire is attributed to Shivaji's efforts in the mid-17th century, who carved out an enclave from the declining Adilshahi sultanate of Bijapur that formed the genesis of the Maratha Empire. After Shivaji, the empire expanded rapidly under the leadership of the Peshwas, the prime ministers of the Maratha Empire. The Maratha Empire reached its zenith under the rule of Peshwa Baji Rao I and further during the time of Madhavrao I, where its influence extended over much of South Asia.

Geography

The Maratha Empire at its peak covered much of the Indian subcontinent. It included large parts of present-day Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and parts of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Chhattisgarh. The empire's geography played a significant role in its military strategies and administrative policies.

Administration

The Maratha Empire's administration was a blend of traditional and innovative methods, with a significant emphasis on mobility and flexibility. The empire was divided into a number of provinces, each governed by a Maratha chief. The Peshwa, who was the empire's prime minister, headed the central administration. The Maratha administration was known for its revenue collection system, which was both efficient and farmer-friendly.

Military

The Maratha military was renowned for its guerrilla warfare tactics, which were effectively used against the Mughals and other adversaries. The Marathas were also known for their naval strength, which allowed them to control the western coast of India. The cavalry was the backbone of the Maratha army, supported by infantry and artillery units.

Culture

The Maratha Empire was instrumental in reviving Hindu culture and politics during a period when the Mughal Empire was promoting Islamic culture. It supported the resurgence of Hindu practices and patronized the Sanskrit language and Hindu learning. The empire also saw the development of a distinct Maratha architecture, literature, and arts.

Decline

The Maratha Empire began to decline in the late 18th century after a series of defeats in the Anglo-Maratha Wars, which culminated in the British East India Company gaining control over much of India. The final blow came with the defeat in the Third Anglo-Maratha War, which led to the end of the Maratha Empire and the beginning of British rule in India.

Legacy

The Maratha Empire left a lasting legacy on the Indian subcontinent. It played a key role in ending Mughal rule and set the stage for the rise of British power in India. The empire's emphasis on Hindu culture and its administrative and military innovations had a lasting impact on the region.