UPSC NCERT Notes - Modern History - Rise of Regional States

The UPSC NCERT Notes on the “Rise of Regional States” in modern history provide a comprehensive overview of the political landscape during a crucial period. This era witnessed the emergence of powerful regional states that played pivotal roles in shaping the political, social, and economic dynamics of their respective regions. The notes delve into the intricate details of how these states rose to prominence, exploring the factors that contributed to their ascendancy and the significant historical events that marked their trajectory. By offering a nuanced understanding of this transformative phase, the UPSC NCERT Notes become an invaluable resource for aspirants seeking to grasp the complexities of regional power dynamics and their impact on the broader canvas of modern Indian history.

By 1761, the Mughal Empire was just a symbolic authority. Due to its weaknesses, the local powers asserted their independence. Following the disintegration of the Mughal Empire, were number of autonomous or independent states emerged.

Table of Contents

Introduction

As the Mughal Empire experienced a decline in power during the 18th century, various autonomous states emerged, including Bengal under Murshid Quli Khan, Awadh under Sadat Khan, Hyderabad under Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah, Carnatic under Sadatullah Khan, Mysore under Hyder Ali, the Jats under Churaman and Surajmal, and the Sikhs under Ranjit Singh, among others.

The Bengal

Following Aurangzeb’s demise, Bengal effectively became an independent viceroyalty under Murshid Quli Khan.
The main rulers of Bengal are outlined below:

Nawabs of Bengal

Murshid Quli Khan (AD 1713-1727) ↓
Shuja-ud-din (AD 1727-1739)
Sarfaraz Khan (AD 1739-1740)
Alivardi Khan (AD 1740-1756)
Siraj-ud-Daula (AD 1756-1757)
Mir Jafar (AD 1757-1760)
Mir Qasim (AD 1760-1763)
Mir Jafar (AD 1763-1765)

Murshid Quli Khan (AD 1717-1727)

Appointed as the Nawab Nazim of Murshidabad by Farrukhsiyar in AD 1719.
Moved his capital from Dacca to Murshidabad and gradually gained autonomy while professing theoretical allegiance to the Mughal Emperor and paying tribute and presents.
Introduced agricultural reforms like providing Taccavi loans to peasants for personal use. Reorganized administration and established law and order by suppressing rebellious Zamindars.

Shuja-ud-Din (AD 1727-1739)

Son-in-law of Murshid, continued Murshid’s policies and reforms. Key advisers were Ral-l-Rayan Alamchand (an adept financier) and Jagat Seth (the renowned banker).
Granted the Governorship of Bihar by Emperor Mohammed Shah in AD 1733, marking the time when the Nawabs of Bengal ruled over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa.
Appointed Alivardi Khan as the Naib Subedar of Bihar.

Sarfaraz Khan (AD 1739-1740)

Son of Shuja-ud-Din, defeated by Alvardi Khan, Governor of Bihar, in the Battle of Giriya (AD 1740) and subsequently murdered.

Alivardi Khan (AD 1740-1756)

In 1741, Alivardi Khan, the Deputy Governor of Bihar, killed the Nawab of Bengal Sarfaraz Khan in a battle.
Alivardi Khan ruled for 15 years, during which he fought with the Marathas. But he died in April 1756 and was succeeded by his grandson, Siraj-ud-Daula.

Siraj-ud-Daula (AD 1756-1757)

He prohibited the English from fortifying their factories at Calcutta, but on their refusal to comply with his orders, he seized the English factory at Kasimbazar on 4th June, 1756 and then Calcutta on 15th June 1756.
Siraj defeated Shaukat Jung, the Subedar of Purnia (Bihar), in the Battle of Manihari (1756).

Black Hole Tragedy (20th June 1758)

Siraj-ud-Daula is believed to have imprisoned 146 English individuals in a very cramped room, resulting in the suffocation and death of 123 of them. This incident is known as the Black Hole Tragedy.

Battle of Plassey

Fought on 23rd June 1757 in the Palasi (Plassey) region of Bengal between the East India Company, led by Robert Clive, and Siraj-ud-Daula.
The East India Company, with the support of Mir Jafar, Rai Durlabh, and Jagat Seth, emerged victorious over the Nawab’s forces.
Considered a turning point in Indian history, this battle marked the establishment of British supremacy in India for the first time.
On 9th February 1757, Siraj-ud-Daula signed the Treaty of Alinagar with the East India Company.

Treaty of Alinagar (9th February 1757)

Concluded by British agent Robert Clive after recovering Calcutta from the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daula.
The main provisions of the treaty included:
The Nawab granted the English all privileges sanctioned by Farrukhsiyar’s farman of 1717.
Exemption of customs duties on English goods passing through Bengal with the company’s dastak.
Permission for the English to fortify Calcutta without hindrance.
Liberty for the English to coin money in Calcutta.

Mir Jafar (AD 1757-1760)

Granted the British the right to free trade in Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, along with the Zamindari of the 24 Parganas, and paid them 17.7 million as compensation for the attack on Calcutta.
He made unsuccessful attempts to replace the English with the Dutch, but the Dutch suffered defeat by the English at Bedara in AD 1759.

Mir Qasim (AD 1760-1763)

Granted the Zamindari of Burdwan, Midnapore, and Chittagong to the British.
Transferred his capital from Murshidabad to Munger in AD 1762.
Stopped the misuse of Dastaks (free passes allowed to the company) and abolished all duties on internal trade against British wishes to protect Indian traders in AD 1763.
Appointed German official Walter Rin Hard (Samru) for the modernization of the army.
Murdered Subedar Ramnarayan of Bihar and occupied the factory at Patna by defeating English officer Ellis.
In AD 1763, the English announced Mir Jafar as the Nawab of Bengal and declared war against Mir Qasim.

Mir Jafar (AD 1763-1765)

Reinstated by the British in 1763 after the outbreak of the war with Mir Qasim. He died in AD 1765.

Battle of Buxar (1764)

The combined armies of Mir Qasim, the Nawab of Awadh, and Shah Alam II were defeated by the English forces under Major Hector Munro at Buxar on 22nd October 1764 in a closely contested battle.
The English campaign against Mir Qasim was short but decisive. The significance of this battle lay in the fact that not only the Nawab of Bengal but also the Mughal Emperor of India was defeated by the English.
The victory elevated the English to a great power in Northern India and positioned them as contenders for supremacy over the entire country.

Naim-ud-Daula (AD 1765-1772)

Najm-ud-din Ali Khan, more commonly known as Najm-ud-Daulah, served as the Nawab of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa from AD 1765 to 1766. He was the second son of Mir Jafar.

The Awadh

The Suba of Awadh comprised Benaras and some districts near Allahabad.
The capital of Awadh was Faizabad.
Asaf-ud-Daula later moved the capital from Faizabad to Lucknow in AD 1775.
The prominent rulers of Awadh were as follows

Nawabs of Awadh

Saadat Khan (AD 1722-1739) (Title: Burhan-ul-Mulk)
Safdar Jang (AD 1739-1754)
Shuja-ud-Daula (AD 1754-1775)
Asaf-ud-Daula (AD 1775-1797)
Wazir Ali (AD 1797-1798)
Saadat Ali Khan II (AD 1798-1814)
Ghazi-ud-Din Haidar Shah (AD 1814-1827)
Nasir-ud-Din Haidar (AD 1827-1837)
Mohammad Ali Shah (AD 1837-1842)
Amjad Ali Shah (AD 1842-1847)
Wajid Ali Shah (AD 1847-1856)
Begum Hazrat Mahal (AD 1857) (Ruling on behalf of her Minor Son)
Birjis Qadr (AD 1857) (Position of Nawab abolished)

Saadat Khan (AD 1722-1739)

Founded in the autonomous state of Awadh in AD 1722, Saadat Khan was appointed as the Governor of Awadh by Emperor Mohammed Shah.
His military reforms significantly strengthened Awadh both economically and politically. In matters of employment, he treated Hindus and Muslims equally, and Maharaja Nawab Rai held the highest post in his government.

Safdar Jung/Abdul Mansur (AD 1739-1754)

Nephew and son-in-law of Saadat Khan, Safdar Jung led an expedition to Bihar, capturing Patna in AD 1742. He played a crucial role in the Battle of Manpur against Ahmed Shah Abdali (AD 1748).
Appointed as the Wazir of the Mughal Empire, he was granted the province of Allahabad by Emperor Ahmed Shah in AD 1748.

From AD 1748 onwards, the Nawab of Awadh came to be known as the Nawab Wazir, as Safdar Jung and his successors held both the Nawabship of Awadh and the Wazirship of the Mughal Empire.

Shuja-ud-Daula (AD 1754-1775)

Son of Safdar Jung, Shuja-ud-Daula protected Ali Gauhar (Shah Alam), the heir apparent of the puppet Mughal Emperor Alamgir II, who had been ousted from Delhi by Turani Wazir, Imad-ul-Mulk.

An ally of the Afghan invader Ahmed Shah Abdali, he negotiated the Treaty of Benaras (AD 1773) with Warren Hastings.

Under this treaty, Kara and Allahabad were sold to the Nawab, and British troops were stationed at Awadh to protect him, for which a subsidy was paid to the British.

He secured victory over the Rohillas with British assistance, incorporating Rohilkhand into Awadh in AD 1774.

Treaty of Allahabad

The Treaty of Allahabad, negotiated by Clive with Shuja-ud-Daula and Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II, granted the British the right of free trade in Awadh. Additionally, the British were permitted to maintain a military presence in Awadh at the Nawab’s expense.
Shah Alam II received the districts of Kara and Allahabad, along with an annual pension of 26 lakh. In return, Shah Alam granted the Diwani of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa to the British.
In another treaty, the company agreed to pay an annual sum of 53 lakh in exchange for the right of Nizamat over Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa, securing both Diwani and Nizamat rights for the company.

Asaf-ud-Daula (AD 1775-1797)

He ratified the Treaty of Faizabad (AD 1755) with the British and relocated his capital from Faizabad to Lucknow in AD 1775.
Known for fostering Lucknow’s culture, Asaf-ud-Daula constructed significant monuments such as Imambara and Rumi Darwaza.

Wazir Khan Ali (AD 1797)

Mirza Wazir Ali, Asaf-ud-Daula’s son, assumed the position of Nawab of Awadh in AD 1797 following his father’s demise.

Saadat Ali Khan II (1798)

Also recognized as Burhan-ul-Mulk, Saadat Khan, Muhammad Nasir’s son and Asaf’s elder brother, ascended the throne in AD 1798 with British support.
He entered into a Subsidiary Treaty with Lord Wellesley in November AD 1801, resulting in the Nawab surrendering about half of his territory to maintain the subsidiary troops.

Other Rulers of Awadh

Rulers	Reign	Description
Ghazi-ud-Din Haldar Shah	AD 1814-1827	He was the third son of Nawab Saadat Ali Khan and became Nawab Wazir of Awadh on 11th July, 1814, after the death of his father.
Nasir-ud-Din Haidar Shah	AD 1827-1837	He ascended the throne on 20th October 1827 at the age of 25 years, following the demise of his nephew, Ghazi-ud-din Haidar Shah.
Muhammad Ali Shah	AD 1837-1842	Son of Saadat Ali Khan II, brother of Ghazi-ud-Din Haldar Stuh, and uncle of Nasir-ud-Din Haidar Shah. He attained the throne with British support after the death of his nephew, contrary to the attempts of the ex-queen mother (Padsh Begum) to nominate another successor.
Amjad Ali Shah	AD 1842-1847	His reign began in May 1842, and he was responsible for various developments in Lucknow, including a new bridge over the river Gomti and major shopping markets.
Wajid Ali Shah	AD 1847-1856	The eldest son of Amjad Ali Shah, known for his patronage of artists, musicians, and dancers. He initiated the construction of the Qaiser Bagh palace complex.
Begum Hazrat Mahal	AD 1857	Also known as the Begum of Awadh, she played a significant role during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
Birjis Qadir	AD 1857	Nawab of Awadh from 1857 until 1858, appointed monarch by his mother Begum Hazrat Mahal during the War of 1857. Fled to Kathmandu in Nepal after the capture of Lucknow by British forces.

The Hyderabad

The concept of the Hyderabad state was initially formulated by Zulfiqar Khan, who acquired the Viceroyalty of the Deccan and managed it through his deputy, Daud Khan, from AD 1708. Ultimately, Nizam-ul-Mulk assumed the position of Subedar of Deccan in AD 1720.
As a prominent noble in the Post-Aurangzeb Era, Nizam-ul-Mulk played a pivotal role in the removal of the Sayyid brothers.

Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah (AD 1724-1748)

He established the autonomous state of Hyderabad in AD 1724.
Serving as the Viceroy of the Deccan from AD 1713 to AD 1715 during his first term, he originally bore the name Chin Qulich Khan. Emperor Farrukhsiyar conferred upon him the titles of Khan-i-Duran and later Nizam-ul-Mulk.
His second term as the Viceroy of the Deccan occurred between AD 1720 and AD 1722. Mohammed Shah appointed him as the Wazir of the Mughal Empire from AD 1722 to 1724.
Known for his tolerant policy toward Hindus, he appointed Puran Chandra as his Diwan. In AD 1738, he signed the Treaty of Bhopal with the Peshwas and served as a mediator in the Battle of Karnal in AD 1739.

Nasir Jung (AD 1748-1750)

He assumed the throne in AD 1748 but was defeated and assassinated by Muzaffar Jung, the son of Nasir’s sister and the grandson of Nizam-ul-Mulk.

Muzaffar Jung (AD 1750-1751)

With the support of the French, he ascended to the throne, but his rule came to an abrupt end due to his accidental death.

Salabat Jung (AD 1751-1760)

The third son of Nizam-ul-Mulk, Salabat Jung, ascended the throne with the assistance of the French.
In AD 1798, Nizam Ali entered into a Subsidiary Treaty with the English, making it the first state to do so.
The Nizams were avid patrons of art, culture, and literature, as evidenced by their contributions such as the Salarjung Museum in Hyderabad and Chow Mahalla Palace.

Carnatic

Originally a subah of the Mughal Deccan, the Carnatic fell under the authority of the Nizam of Hyderabad.
The Nizam, along with the Deputy Governor of the Carnatic (Nawab of Carnatic), gained independence from Delhi. However, post-1740 struggles for the Nawabship of Carnatic led to deteriorating affairs, opening doors for European trading companies to directly intervene in Indian politics.

Kerala

Kerala comprised significant states, including Calicut under the Zamorin, Chirakkal, Cochin, and Travancore.
Notable rulers include:

King Marthanda Varma

Rising to prominence after 1729, King Marthanda Varma played a key role in the kingdom of Travancore during the 18th century.

He organized a robust Western-modeled army with European officers and modern weaponry, along with constructing a modern arsenal.

By AD 1763, the smaller principalities of Kerala had either been absorbed or subordinated by the major states of Cochin, Travancore, and Calicut.

Rama Varma

Rama Varma succeeded Marthanda Varma and distinguished himself as a poet, scholar, musician, celebrated actor, and a person of profound cultural refinement.

The Jats

Predominantly inhabiting rural areas in Haryana, Punjab, the western parts of the Ganga Doab, and eastern Rajputana, the Jats were renowned for their prowess in warfare and were enlisted as soldiers by both Hindu and Muslim rulers.
Key leaders within the Jat community included:
Gokal: The Zamindar of Tilpat, who led the Jat uprisings in AD 1669, eventually suppressed by the Mughal Governor, Hasan Ali Khan.
Rajarama (AD 1670-1688): Zamindar of Sinsani, who spearheaded the Jat uprisings in AD 1685, suppressed by Raja Bishan Singh Kachwaha of Amber.
Churaman (AD 1690-1721): Obtained a Mansab from Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah I, establishing the state of Bharatpur. Served in Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah’s campaign against Banda Bahadur.
Badan Singh (AD 1722-1756): Nephew of Churaman, bestowed with the title of Raja by Ahmed Shah Abdali, regarded as the true founder of the Jat states of Bharatpur.
Suraj Mal (AD 1756-1765): Adopted son and successor of Badan Singh, elevated the Jat Kingdom to its zenith, renowned for his military and diplomatic acumen, remembered as the Plato of the Jat tribe and Jat Ulysses.

Rohilakhand

Amidst the Mughal administration’s decline post-Nadir Shah’s invasion, Ali Muhammad Khan established a separate principality, Rohilakhand, in AD 1741, situated at the foothills of the Himalayas between the Ganga in the South and the Kumaon hills in the North.
The Rohilas engaged in frequent conflicts with Awadh, Delhi, and the Jats.

Rajputs

Dissatisfaction with the policies of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb led to several regions declaring their independence, including many Rajput territories.
Some notable Rajput rulers include:

Sawai Jai Singh II (AD 1688-1747)

Distinguished as both a statesman and astronomer, Sawai Jai Singh II constructed observatories, known as Jantar Mantar, in stone to calculate planetary positions at Varanasi, Delhi, Ujjain, Mathura, and Jaipur—a designated World Heritage Site.
He compiled a table of observations called Ziz-l-Jadid Muhammed Shahi, and translated significant works into Sanskrit, including Euclid’s Geometry.
A social reformer, he endeavored to combat the practice of female infanticide.

City of Jaipur

Established in AD 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur stands as one of the first planned cities, designed based on Vastu Shastra principles with the assistance of town planner Vidyadhar Bhattacharya.
The king relocated his capital from Amber to Jaipur.

The Punjab

Following Guru Gobind Singh’s demise in AD 1708, Banda Bahadur assumed Sikh leadership in the early 18th century, initiating the Sikh war of Independence against Mughal imperial authority.
Banda Bahadur and his army gained control over the Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir between AD 1765 and AD 1800. Over time, these soldiers formed twelve confederacies or Misls.

The Misls

The Misls were the twelve sovereign states of The Sikh Confederacy, which rose during the 18th century in the Punjab region in the Northern part of the Indian subcontinent and is cited as one of the causes of the weakening of the Mughal Empire prior to Nadir Shah’s invasion of India in AD 1738-1740.
The Misls formed a commonwealth that was described by Swiss adventurer Antoine Polier a natural aristocratic republic

Twelve Misis and their Founders

Misls	Founder
Sukerchakia Misl	Charat Singh
Banghi Misl	Chhajja Singh
Ahluwalia Misl	Jassa Singh
Phulkian Misl	Sindhu Jat
Kanhaiya Misl	Jai Singh Kanhaiya
Ramgarhia Misl	Ramgarhia Clan
Singhpuria Misl	Nawab Kapoor Singh
Nishalvali Misl	Sardar Sangat Singh
Dallewalia Misl	Gulab Singh
Nakai Misl	Hira Singh Sandhu
Shaheedan Misl	Baba Deep Singh
Singh Karora Misl	Baghel Singh

The establishment of the first kingdom in Punjab is attributed to Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Ranjit Singh (AD 1780-1839)

Maha Singh, the father of Ranjit Singh, led the Sukerchakia Misl and governed the region between the Ravi and the Chenab.
In AD 1792, Ranjit Singh assumed the throne at the age of 12. However, for the initial five years of his reign, he governed through a Regency Council, with his mother at the helm. He assumed full control of the government in AD 1797, a remarkable feat at the age of 17.
In AD 1798, Zaman Shah, the son of Ahmed Shah Abdali, acknowledging himself as the legitimate ruler of Punjab, granted Ranjit Singh the authority to occupy Lahore and govern it on his behalf.
Ranjit Singh seized control of Lahore and Amritsar from the Sardars of Bhangi Misl, establishing Lahore as his political capital and adopting the title of Maharaja of Lahore in AD 1799.
He extended his dominion across the entire territory from Sutlej to Jhelum. By defeating the confederacy of Sikh misls led by Gulab Singh, he emerged as a formidable leader of the entire Sikh community.

Treaty of Amritsar (25th April, 1809)

This treaty was negotiated between Ranjit Singh and Charles T. Metcalf, the representative of the British East India Company. The key provisions of the treaty included:
Acceptance of the Sutlej River as the boundary for both states.
The territories east of the Sutlej were ceded to the British.
An English regiment was stationed in Ludhiana to prevent any attacks from Ranjit Singh on that side.
He helped Shah Shuja, grandson of Ahmed Shah Abdali, during the succession war in Afghanistan and in return, took the famous Kohinoor diamond from him. Later, the throne was occupied by Dost Mohammed.

Sikh forces, under the commandership of Hari Singh Naula, defeated the Afghan invader, Dost Mohammed.

He renovated the Sikh shrine decorating the lower half with marble and the entire upper portion with copper surmounted by a thin plate of gold and gave it the modern name of the Golden Temple.

Tripartite Treaty 1838

Ranjit Singh signed the Tripartite Treaty, in AD 1838, with Shah Shuja and the EIC (Lord Auckland), which gave freedom to the British troops to pass through the Punjab.
Thus, the English restricted the advance of Russian forces in India through Punjab, with the help of Ranjit Singh.

Successors of Ranjit Singh

Rulers	Reign	Description
Kharak Singh	AD 1839	He was the eldest son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, founder of the Sikh Empire. He succeeded his father on 27th June, 1839 and reigned until his dethronement and imprisonment on 8th October, 1839.
Nau Nihal Singh	AD 1839-1840	He was the only son of Maharaja Kharak Singh. He was known as Yuvraj Kunwar Nau Nihal Singh, Bhanwar Singh or Bhanwar Sa or Kunwar Sa means respected young Prince. His reign began with the dethronement of his father Maharaja Kharak Singh.
Chand Kaur	AD 1840-1841	She was the wife of Kharak Singh and mother of Nau Nihal Singh. After the death of both her husband Kharak Singh and son Nau Nihal Singh, she declared herself regent for the unborn child of Nau Nihal Singh and his pregnant widow Sahib.
Sher Singh	AD 1841-1843	Maharaja Sher Singh was the Sikh sovereign of Punjab from January 1841 until his assassination in September 1843. He was the son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Dalip Singh	AD 1843-1849	He was the last Maharaja of the Sikh Empire. He was the youngest son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He was placed in power in September 1843, at the age of five, with his mother ruling on his behalf and after their defeat in the Anglo-Sikh War, under a British Resident.

First Anglo-Sikh War

In the era of Dalip Singh, the British launched an invasion of Punjab (First Anglo-Sikh War, AD 1845-46), seized Lahore, and imposed the Treaty of Lahore on 9th March 1846 as the terms of peace.
As Lahore Durbar couldn’t meet the war indemnity, it agreed to cede to the East India Company the hill territories located between the Beas and Indus rivers, including the province of Kashmir. Gulab Singh, a key negotiator in these discussions, received Kashmir from the company.

Second Anglo-Sikh War

Despite these agreements, the situation in Punjab did not stabilize, leading to the Second Anglo-Sikh War (AD 1848-1849), resulting in the annexation of Punjab to the East India Company by Lord Dalhousie. Raja Dalip Singh and Rani Jindal (Queen of Ranjit Singh) were sent to London with fixed annual pensions.

The Marathas

Another potent regional kingdom that emerged in sustained opposition to Mughal rule was the Marathas.
The Maratha Confederacy wielded significant influence in various parts of India during the 18th century, posing a formidable challenge to Mughal authority in both Deccan and the North.
When Aurangzeb, after 40 years of fruitless warfare in the Deccan, passed away, the Marathas remained unsubdued.
After Aurangzeb’s death, Shivaji’s grandson Shahu was released by Bahadur Shah, but the Maratha Kingdom was weakened.
The civil war between Shahu at Satara and his aunt Tarabai at Kolhapur further exacerbated the situation.
Tarabai had been leading an Anti-Mughal struggle since 1700 in the name of her son Shivaji II.
The conflict with the Tarabai faction was eventually resolved in the Treaty of Warna in 1731, granting the state of Kolhapur to Shivaji II. In 1719, Balaji Vishwanath, leading the Maratha force, accompanied Sayyid Hussain Ali Khan.
The Marathas supported the Sayyid Brothers in overthrowing Farrukhsiyyar in Delhi. Following this, the Peshwa secured a Mughal Sanad (imperial order) recognizing Shahu’s entitlement to Chauth and Sardeshmukhi (one-fourth and one-tenth, respectively) in six Mughal provinces of Deccan, along with Chauth of Malwa and Gujarat, granting them independent status in Maharashtra.
With the conclusion of the Maratha civil war, authority over the state gradually transitioned from the line of Shivaji to that of the Peshwas.
After Balaji Vishwanath’s death in 1720, his 20-year-old son, Baji Rao I, succeeded him as Peshwa. By 1740, when Baji Rao passed away, the Marathas had gained control over Malwa, Gujarat, and parts of Bundelkhand.
During this period, the Maratha families of Gaekwad, Holkar, Scindia, and Bhonsle rose to prominence within a short span of 20 years.
In the decisive Third Battle of Panipat, the Maratha forces, led by Sadashiv Rao Bhao, were defeated by Abdali, marking the onset of the decline of Maratha power.

Major Treaties made by Marathas

Treaty	Year	Contracting Party
Treaty of Purandar	1665	Jaysingh and Shivaji
Treaty of Sagoli	1750	Balaji Baji Rao and Rajaram
Treaty of Jhalki	1752	Balaji and Nizam of Hyderabad
Treaty of Rakshasa Bhuvan	1763	Madhav Rao Scindia and Nizam of Hyderabad
Treaty of Kankapur	1769	Madhav Rao Narayan and the British
Treaty of Surat	1775	Raghunath Rao and East India Company
Treaty of Purandar	1776	Madhav Rao Narayan and the British
Treaty of Badgaon	1779	Madhav Rao Narayan and the British
Treaty of Salbai	1782	Madhav Rao Narayan and the British
Treaty of Basein	1802	Baji Rao II and the British
Treaty of Devgaon	1803	Bhonsle and the British
Treaty of Surji Arjun Village 1803	1803	Scindia and the British
Treaty of Rajapur Ghat 1804	1804	Holkar and the British
Treaty of Poona	1817	Baji Rao II and the British
Treaty of Gwalior	1817	Daulatrao Scindia and the British
Treaty of Mandasaur	1818	Holkar and Britishers

The Mysore

Following the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire in AD 1565, Mysore gained independence under the Hindu Wodeyar Dynasty.
Between AD 1731 and 1734, the two brothers Devaraja and Nanaraja seized power in the state, emerging as the de facto rulers.

The state became a point of contention between the Peshwa and Nizam. During the Second Carnatic War, Nanaraja initially allied with the English to capture Tiruchirapalli (Tamil Nadu), but later shifted his allegiance from the English to the French.

Some notable rulers of Mysore include:

Haider Ali (AD 1760-1782)

He commenced his career as a soldier in the service of the Mysore state, later rising to the position of Commander-in-Chief and earning a commendable record as the Faujdar of Dindigul.
He introduced Western-style training for his troops and established a modern Arsenal (AD 1755) at Dindigul with assistance from the French.
In AD 1759, he successfully defended Srirangapatnam (the capital of Mysore) against the Marathas, earning the title of Fateh Haider Bahadur (brave victorious lion) from Nanaraja, the de facto ruler, while Chikka Krishna Raja retained the de jure title of ruler of Mysore.
Allied with the French and the Nizam, Haider Ali dealt a crushing defeat to the English in the First Anglo-Mysore War (AD 1767-1769), compelling them to sign a humiliating treaty, the Treaty of Madras, in April 1769.
In AD 1781, he suffered defeat at the hands of Eyre Coote in the Battle of Portonovo.
During the Second Anglo-Mysore War (AD 1780-1784), Haider Ali, in alliance with the Marathas and the Nizam, captured Arcot and inflicted a humiliating defeat on the English once again in AD 1782.
He passed away on 7th December 1782 during the progression of the Second Anglo-Mysore War.

Tipu Sultan (AD 1782-1799)

Following Haider Ali’s reign, Tipu Sultan, in contrast to his father, deposed the Raja of Mysore and openly assumed the title of Sultan in AD 1786.
The Second War with the British continued until AD 1784, when both sides grew weary and established peace through the Treaty of Mangalore (March 1784) based on the mutual restitution of conquests. Tipu Sultan defeated the coalition army of Marathas and Nizam.
Engaging in the Third Anglo-Mysore War (AD 1790-1792), where the Marathas and Nizam allied with the British, Tipu Sultan signed the Treaty of Srirangapatnam (March 1792), resulting in the surrender of nearly half of Mysore’s territory to the victorious allies.
The Fourth Anglo-Mysore War (AD 1799) concluded with the complete collapse of Tipu Sultan’s power, and he died in battle.
Tipu Sultan reorganized the infantry following European lines and attempted to establish a modern navy with two dockyards.
He dispatched ambassadors to France, Turkey, Iran, Peru, and Zaman Shah of Afghanistan to develop foreign trade.
Introducing a new system of coinage, scales of weights and measures, and a new calendar, Tipu Sultan, like his father, issued coins featuring the images of Hindu deities.
He held great regard for Jagadguru Shankaracharya of Sringeri and provided funds for the repairs of temples.

Treaties signed by Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan

Treaty of Madras AD 1769: Restored conquered territories to their respective owners.
Treaty of Mangalore AD 1784: Mutually restored conquered territories and liberated war prisoners.
Treaty of Srirangapatnam AD 1792, signed by Tipu by which he had to cede half of his territory to the campaign and paid huge war reparation.

Important Facts About Tipu

He was a great admirer of Jagadguru Shankaracharya of Sringeri and offered him funds for the establishment of the image of Goddess Sharda which was vandalized by Marathas
Tarikh-i-Khudal is his autobiography. He wrote a military manual, Fatahul Mujahidin, in which rocket technology and rocket brigades were mentioned.
(Bangalore) He completed the Lal Bagh Project started by Haider and also laid the foundation of the Krishnaraj Sagar Dam on the Kaveri River.
Took a keen interests in the French Revolution and became a member of the Jacobin club. He also planted the Tree of Liberty at Srirangapatnam and called himself Citizen Tipu.
The famous temple of Sri Rangnath was situated barely a hundred yards from his place.
He assumed the title of Padshah in AD 1797.

Prelims Facts

Vikramshila Mahavira was established by which ruler? Pala Dynasty (UPPSC (Mains) 2005
Epigraphic record (inscriptions) suggest that in ancient India, the ruler of Bihar had contract with Java Sumatra [BPSC (Pre) 1999)
The Odantípur Education Centre was situated at which place? -Bihar (BPSC (Pre) 2018)
Sandhyakar Nandi was the court poet of which dynasty? – Palas [WBCS (Pre) 2021)
Who was the founder of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty? -Harichandra (UPPSC (Pre) 2003]
Which ruler laid the foundation of Rashtrakuta empire ? Dantidurga [IAS (Pre) 2006)
Which ruler of the Rashtrakutas dynasty performed a ritual called ‘Hiranyagarbha? Dantidurga (UPPSC (Pre) 2013]
Which South Indian dynasty played an important role in Tripartite Struggle? -Rashtrakutas (IPSC (Pre) 2013/
Which Rashtrakuta ruler was born in a military camp in the course of his fathers campaign? – Amoghavarsha I (UPPSC (Mains) 2013]
Who built the Tribhuvan Narayan temple of Chittor? – Paramara Rajabhoja [MPPSC (Pre) 2019
Kumaradevi, a queen of Govind Chandra Gahadavala, constructed Dharma-Chakra- Jana Vihara at -Sarnath (UPPSC (Mains) 2007]
The famous battle of Takkolam of South India was fought between……. and – Cholas and Rashtrakutas (UPPSC (Pre) 2003)
Which dynasty was designated at Balhar by the Arab travellers – Rashtrakutas [WBCS (Pre 2022
Which Rashtrakuta ruler built the Kailash temple of Ellora Krishna I [UPPSC (Pre) 2010
In which place, the Cave temple built by the Rashtrakutas in the Ellora mountains are located? Aurangabad (Maharashtra) [UPPSC (Pre) 2017
Who is considered as the greatest king of Pratihara dynasty? – Mihir Bhoja [UPPSC (Pre) 2010
In which modern day state, the university of Vikramshla was located? – Bihar [JPSC (Pre)
Which king was the founder of Pala Dynasty? – Gopala (UPPSC (Mains) 2018
The Luxman era was started by which dynasty? – Sena Dynasty (UPPSC (Pre) 2018
What is the name of very important Seaport of Kakatiya Kingdom? -Motupalli [IAS (Pre) 2017
Mahodaya’ is an old name of which region? Kannauj (UPPSC (Mains) 2012

UPSC NCERT Practice Questions

1. which one of the following was the last governor of bengal appointed by the mughal emperor? UPPSC (Mains) 2013

(a) Sarfraz Khan

(b) Murshid Quli Khan

(d) Shuja-ud-din Muhammad Khan

2. Which of the following shifted his capital from Murshidabad to Munger? IAS (Pre) 2005

(a) Alivardi Khan

(b) Siraj-ud-Daulah

(d) Mir Qasim

3. Which of the following statements is incorrect about the Treaty of Allahabad?

(a) It was signed in AD 1765.

(b) The Mughal Emperor formally granted the Diwani of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa to the East India Company by a farman.

(d) Banaras and the surrounding tracts were detatched from Awadh and handed over to Shah Alam II.

4. Who among the following was the founder of Awadh state in the 18th century?

(a) Murshid Quli Khan

(b) Saadat Khan

(d) Sarfaraz Khan

5. In AD 1856, Awadh would not have been included in the British empire, if

(a) the Nawab of Awadh would have forged an alliance with the British.

(b) the Nawab of Awadh would not have refused to implement the reforms suggested by the British.

(d) the Nawab of Awadh would have had a natural successor.

6. Who was the first Indian native ruler to accept the Subsidiary Treaty System? MPPSC (Pre) 2009

(a) Scindia of Gwalior

(b) Nizam of Hyderabad

(d) Gaikwad of Baroda

7. Statement (I) In AD 1856, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was deposed and exiled Calcutta on the grounds of misrule in his area.

Statement (II) The charge on the Nawab was that he was unable to gain control over the rebel Chieftains and Taluqdars.

Codes

(a) Both statements I and Il are correct and statement lI

explains statement I.

(b) Statement I and Il both are correct, but statement lI does not explain statement I.

(d) Statement Il is correct, statement I is false.

8. Under which king, the Kingdom of Travancore rose into prominence after AD 1729?

(a) King Marthanda Varma

(b) Murshid Quli Khan

(d) Mir Qasim

9. The kingdom of Ranjit Singh included

(a) Delhi

(b) Kabul

(d) Srinagar

10. Which one of the following statements is correct about Dalip Singh, the ex-Maharaja of Punjab? UPPSC (Mains) 2013

(a) He died in Paris on 22nd October, 1893.

(b) He was cremated at Nasik.

(d) He had never visited Russia.

11. Who among the following Indian rulers established embassies in foreign countries on modern lines? IAS (Pre) 2001, UPPSC (Pre) 2011

(a) Haider Ali

(b) Mir Qasim

(d) Tipu Sultan

12. Which one of the statements is not correct?

(a) Ali Mardan Khan introduced the system of revenue farming in Bengal.

(b) Maharaja Ranjit Singh set up modern foundries to manufacture cannons at Lahore.

(d) Sultan Tipu of Mysore gave money for the construction of the idol of Goddess Sharda in the Shringeri temple.

Know Right Answer

1 (b)

2 (d)

3 (d)

4 (b)

5 (b)

6 (b)

7 (a)

8 (A)

9 (d)

10. (a)

11 (d)

12 (a)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the significance of the rise of regional states in modern Indian history?

A1: The rise of regional states in modern Indian history marked a significant shift in political dynamics. As the Mughal Empire weakened, regional states emerged, contributing to the decentralization of power. This period saw the establishment of strong, independent kingdoms that played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of India.

Q2: Which were the prominent regional states that emerged during the decline of the Mughal Empire?

A2: Some prominent regional states that emerged during the decline of the Mughal Empire include the Marathas, the Sikhs, the Jats, and various kingdoms in the South like the Carnatic and Mysore. These states asserted their sovereignty and played pivotal roles in the political and cultural history of India.

Q3: How did the Marathas rise to power as a regional state?

A3: The Marathas rose to power under the leadership of Shivaji and later expanded their influence under leaders like the Peshwas. Through military prowess and strategic alliances, the Marathas established a powerful confederacy that challenged the Mughal authority. Their efficient administration and military tactics contributed to the rise of the Maratha Empire.

Q4: What role did regional states play in resisting foreign invasions during the modern period?

A4: Regional states played a crucial role in resisting foreign invasions during the modern period. For instance, the Sikh Empire, under leaders like Maharaja Ranjit Singh, successfully defended against external threats. Similarly, various regional kingdoms in the South resisted European colonial powers, contributing to the overall resistance against foreign domination.

Q5: How did the rise of regional states impact the cultural and economic landscape of India?

A5: The rise of regional states had a profound impact on the cultural and economic landscape of India. It led to the flourishing of regional languages, art, and architecture. Economic activities thrived under the patronage of regional rulers, fostering trade and commerce. This period witnessed the development of unique regional cultures that continue to influence India’s diversity today.

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UPSC NCERT Notes – Modern History – Rise of Regional States