History
From the Delhi Sultanate to the Mughals
A tomb built for love, and the empire that built it.
4 min, Intro, Draft written with AI help: awaiting scholar review
Part 1 of 3
Arab merchants brought Islam to India's coasts early. An Arab army took Sindh in 711 to 712. From 1206 the Delhi Sultanate ruled much of the north. Yet many historians credit Sufi teachers, more than sultans, with spreading the faith.
Lesson
Many historians credit teachers and settlers, more than armies, with spreading Islam in South Asia.
Part 2 of 3
In 1526 Babur founded the Mughal Empire. His grandson Akbar ruled with notable tolerance. Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal as a tomb for his wife. Aurangzeb expanded the empire and ruled more strictly. Historians still argue over his legacy.
Lesson
Akbar's tolerance and Aurangzeb's strictness both shaped the Mughal Empire.
Part 3 of 3
Under the British, Mughal power faded. In 1947 British India was partitioned into India and Pakistan amid mass violence. In 1971 East Pakistan became Bangladesh. India's roughly 200 million Muslims are one of the world's largest Muslim populations.
Lesson
Many South African Muslims trace their families to Gujarat and other parts of India.
Reflect, just for you
Seen by lamplight. It gives more each time.
A tomb built for love, and the empire that built it.