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Alamgir II
Alamgir II, born Mirza Aziz-ud-Din on June 6, 1699, was the sixteenth Mughal emperor, reigning from June 3, 1754, until his assassination on November 29, 1759. He was the son of Jahandar Shah and ascended to the throne after a period of significant political turmoil within the Mughal Empire. His reign is often characterised as a time of decline for the empire, marked by external invasions and internal strife.
Role in the Mughal Empire:
- Alamgir II’s ascension to power was facilitated by the vizier Imad-ul-Mulk, who deposed the previous emperor, Ahmad Shah Bahadur.
- However, Alamgir II was largely seen as a puppet ruler; powerful nobles and external threats undermined his authority. The empire faced significant challenges during his reign:
- Invasions: Ahmad Shah Durrani of Afghanistan invaded India in 1756, capturing Delhi and plundering Mathura. This invasion highlighted the weakened state of the Mughal Empire and led to increased Maratha influence in northern India.
- Battle of Plassey: One of the most pivotal events during Alamgir II’s reign was the Battle of Plassey in 1757. This battle resulted in the British East India Company gaining control over Bengal, marking a significant shift in power dynamics in India.
- The defeat of Siraj-ud-Daula at Plassey not only weakened local rulers but also set the stage for British colonial expansion across India.
- Internal Strife: Alamgir’s relationship with Imad-ul-Mulk deteriorated over time, leading to political instability. The vizier’s growing power culminated in Alamgir II’s assassination in 1759, which further destabilised the already crumbling empire.
Conditions in the Indian Subcontinent:
- Fragmentation of Power: The Mughal Empire was no longer a unified entity; various regional powers, such as the Marathas and Sikhs, began asserting their independence. The Marathas expanded their territory significantly during this period, often at the expense of Mughal authority.
- Economic Decline: The empire faced severe financial difficulties due to ongoing wars and mismanagement. The imperial treasury was depleted, making it difficult for Alamgir II to maintain control or pay his military forces effectively. This economic malaise contributed to widespread discontent among both nobility and common people.
