The Marathas (18th Century)
The Rise of a Formidable Power
In the 18th century, as the Mughal Empire fragmented, the Marathas emerged as the most formidable native power in India. Originating from the rugged terrain of Maharashtra, their influence spread across vast swathes of the subcontinent. This section provides an overview of their historical significance and the factors that contributed to their rise, setting the stage for their eventual challenge to pan-Indian supremacy. Explore the subsequent sections to delve into their political structure, key rulers, and eventual decline.
The Peshwa Era: An Interactive Timeline
The de-facto rulers of the Maratha Empire were the Peshwas (Prime Ministers). This timeline highlights the key Peshwas and their contributions. Click on each name to see the significant events and policies of their time. This interactive guide helps in understanding the chronological progression of Maratha leadership.
Select a Peshwa
Click on a Peshwa from the timeline on the left to learn about their reign, major achievements, and key battles.
The Maratha Confederacy
After the death of Shahu, real power shifted from the Chhatrapati to the Peshwas and prominent Maratha sardars (chiefs) who established their own spheres of influence. This led to the formation of the Maratha Confederacy. Hover over each member in the diagram below to learn about their dynasty and capital.
This decentralized structure, while effective for rapid expansion, contained inherent weaknesses due to internal rivalries, which the British later exploited.
Administration & Revenue
Maratha administration was a mix of Deccan traditions and Mughal practices. The foundation was laid by Shivaji with his Ashtapradhan, and the revenue system was crucial for sustaining their military campaigns. Click on the cards below to explore these key administrative features.
Ashtapradhan
Shivaji's council of eight ministers. Each had a specific role, forming the backbone of early Maratha administration. Click to see the council members.
Chauth
A major source of revenue. It was a tax amounting to one-fourth of the land revenue paid to the Marathas. Click to understand its purpose.
Sardeshmukhi
An additional levy of 10 percent, demanded from areas outside the kingdom, based on the claim that the Maratha king was the chief headman. Click for details.
Decline & Key Conflicts
The Maratha dream of an all-India empire was shattered by a combination of internal weaknesses and external challenges, primarily from the Afghans and the British. This section analyzes the pivotal Third Battle of Panipat and the subsequent Anglo-Maratha Wars that led to their downfall.
Third Battle of Panipat (1761)
Estimated troop strength comparison between Marathas and the forces of Ahmad Shah Abdali.
Anglo-Maratha Wars
First Anglo-Maratha War (1775-1782)
Ended with the Treaty of Salbai, largely maintaining the status quo. It demonstrated the strength of the united Maratha confederacy under leaders like Mahadji Scindia.
Second Anglo-Maratha War (1803-1805)
A decisive British victory. The internal rivalries within the confederacy were exploited by the British. Ended with the Treaty of Surji-Anjangaon and Treaty of Deogaon, forcing Marathas to cede large territories.
Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818)
The final blow. The Peshwaship was abolished, and most of the Maratha territory was annexed by the British, marking the end of the Maratha Empire.
Why did the Marathas Fail?
- Weak Political Structure: The confederacy model lacked unity and a common purpose.
- Inferior Military & Diplomacy: Outmatched by the disciplined army and superior diplomacy of the British.
- Unstable Economic Policy: Over-reliance on plunder and tribute (Chauth) alienated other regional powers.
- Lack of a National Vision: Failed to present an alternative to the Mughal Empire that was acceptable to other Indian rulers.
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