Decline of the Mughal Empire: Aurangzeb's Reign

What strategy did Aurangzeb employ to gain power after his father's illness?

Which Mughal Emperor favored Dara as his successor?

What was the outcome of the battle at Samugarh?

Where did Dara flee after his defeat by Aurangzeb?

What eventually happened to Dara after he fled to Afghanistan?

How did Shah Jahan react after recovering from his illness?

Which groups did Aurangzeb primarily fight against during his reign?

What is one reason Aurangzeb is considered a controversial figure?

What was a significant factor in Aurangzeb's rise to power?

What was one of Aurangzeb's main ambitions as a ruler?

How did Shah Jahan's illness impact Aurangzeb's quest for power?

What ultimately led to Dara's defeat in his struggle against Aurangzeb?

What happened to Dara after he fled to Punjab?

What did Shah Jahan do after recovering from his illness?

Which of the following describes Aurangzeb's reputation among historians?

What was a major consequence of Aurangzeb's military campaigns?

Aurangzeb: The Last Great Mughal Emperor

Reigned from 1618 to 1707, known for ambitious expansion of the Mughal Empire.
Engaged in protracted conflicts against Hindu chieftains, Rajputs, and Marathas.
Sought to emulate the Tughlaqs by extending empire into the Deccan region.
Remains a controversial historical figure, with ongoing debates about his legacy and impact on the empire's decline.

Rise to Power

Power struggle initiated in 1657 when Emperor Shah Jahan fell ill, leading to a contest among his four sons.
Sons governed large provinces and commanded considerable military forces, driving their ambition to succeed Shah Jahan.
No established rule of primogeniture among Mughals allowed for power contests among brothers.
Shah Jahan favored son Dara Shikoh, while Shah Shuja in Bengal declared himself emperor and Aurangzeb initially supported Murad, the youngest son.
Dara’s forces faced Aurangzeb’s at the Battle of Samugarh on May 28, 1658, where Dara's defeat was aided by the loss of his war elephant, causing his soldiers to flee.

Aftermath of Power Struggle

Following the battle, Dara fled to Punjab but was denied asylum by the Punjabis due to fear of Aurangzeb's retribution.
Dara's attempted escape to Afghanistan ended in betrayal by a former friend, leading to his eventual capture.
Aurangzeb ordered the execution of Dara and his son, effectively eliminating his main rival for the throne.
Shah Jahan, unexpectedly recovering from his illness, found it too late to reclaim his authority as Aurangzeb had already consolidated power.

This quiz explores the impact of Emperor Aurangzeb on the Mughal Empire's decline. Examine the successes and failures of his reign, and assess his responsibility for the empire's weakening. Answer key questions about his military pursuits and policies.