In which of the following year the ruler of Iran, Nadir Shah, sacked and plundered the city of Delhi?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3: 1739.
Explanation:
- In 1739 AD, the ruler of Iran, Nadir Shah, invaded India and carried out extensive looting in Delhi. Historically, this event is considered a decisive factor in the decline of the Mughal Empire.
- The Battle of Karnal: A battle took place in Karnal on February 24, 1739, between Nadir Shah and the forces of the Mughal Emperor, Muhammad Shah 'Rangila'. Nadir Shah's army easily defeated the Mughal forces.
- The Looting of Delhi: Nadir Shah seized control of Delhi and ordered a massacre within the city. It is said that he carried away immense wealth, including the famous 'Takht-e-Taus' (Peacock Throne) and the 'Kohinoor' diamond.
- Impact: This invasion exposed the weakness of the Mughal Empire to the entire world and left the central authority economically crippled.
Historical Analysis of Options (Quick Revision):
- 1707 (Option 1): This was the year the last powerful Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, passed away, marking the beginning of the rapid decline of the Mughal Empire.
- 1751 (Option 4): This period corresponds to the Post-Mughal era and the expansion of the Marathas (e.g., the Siege of Arcot).
- 1739 (Correct): Nadir Shah's invasion.
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: By what title is Nadir Shah known?
Answer: 'The Napoleon of Iran.'
Question: Who was the Mughal Emperor of India at the time of Nadir Shah's invasion?
Answer: Muhammad Shah 'Rangila'.
Question: Who took the Peacock Throne out of India?
Answer: Nadir Shah.