Mughal Empire in India: A Journey of Discovery

Author: (French) Berinstain
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-08-01
Features: In 1526, Babur, the young Turkish-Mongol prince born in Central Asia, achieved a decisive victory in the war against the Sultan of Delhi. Determined to establish an empire on the Indian subcontinent, he laid the foundation for the Mughal dynasty's rule over India. Thirty years later, Emperor Akbar further perfected the legacy of his grandfather, conquering vast territories and, with his unparalleled political administrative system, ultimately solidified the Mughal regime. From then on, the Mughal emperors truly came to the forefront. Under the rule of these emperors, who were passionate about art and highly supportive of cultural and artistic endeavors, Mughal Indian civilization blossomed with dazzling brilliance, its wealth and elegance creating legendary tales. However, in the mid-19th century, rebellions and factional conflicts, coupled with the weakness, indolence, and extravagant spending of the subsequent emperors, destroyed the entire Mughal dynasty. The Mughal emperors became the new masters of India—the puppets of the British. Valérie Berinstain takes us through the extraordinary journey of this Islamic dynasty: it dominated the fate of the entire Indian subcontinent for three centuries. Over 140 documents and sources recreate the magnificent splendor of the Mughal Empire, providing a concise introduction to the works of the time, particularly the memoirs of the rulers, architectural blueprints, paintings, and photographic images of major historical and cultural heritage sites.