Aurangzeb History Timeline and Biographies | History Timeline Generator

Birth of Aurangzeb

Aurangzeb was born on October 24, 1618, in Dahod, Gujarat, as the third son of Emperor Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. His early life was marked by the luxurious lifestyle of the Mughal court, but he would later become known for his austere lifestyle and devout Islamic faith.

Military Training and Early Campaigns

At the age of 18, Aurangzeb was appointed to lead military campaigns in the Deccan region. His early experiences in warfare helped him gain recognition as a capable military leader and strategist, laying the groundwork for his future conquests.

Ascension to the Throne

Aurangzeb ascended to the Mughal throne after a brutal power struggle with his brothers. He imprisoned his father, Shah Jahan, and declared himself emperor, adopting the title Aurangzeb Alamgeer. His reign began with a focus on consolidating power and expanding the empire.

The Deccan Campaigns Begin

Aurangzeb launched a series of military campaigns in the Deccan, aiming to annex the regional kingdoms of Bijapur and Golconda. These campaigns would last for decades and significantly expand the Mughal Empire's territory.

Aurangzeb successfully captured the kingdoms of Bijapur and Golconda, further solidifying Mughal control over southern India. His military conquests were marked by both strategic brilliance and brutal tactics.

Execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur

In a controversial move, Aurangzeb ordered the execution of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, for refusing to convert to Islam. This event heightened tensions between the Sikh community and the Mughal Empire, marking a significant moment in Aurangzeb's reign.

Mewar Campaigns and Rajput Resistance

Aurangzeb faced significant resistance from the Rajputs, particularly in Mewar. Despite several military campaigns, he struggled to fully subdue the region, highlighting the challenges of governing a diverse empire.

Aurangzeb completed the annexation of the Deccan Sultanates, including Golconda and Bijapur, effectively bringing southern India under Mughal control. This expansion marked the peak of Aurangzeb's territorial achievements.

Aurangzeb implemented strict Islamic laws and policies, including the re-imposition of the jizya tax on non-Muslims. His actions alienated many Hindus and other religious communities, contributing to unrest within the empire.

The Maratha Empire, under the leadership of Shivaji's successors, began to rise as a formidable opponent to Aurangzeb's rule. The Marathas' guerrilla tactics posed significant challenges to Mughal authority in western India.

Aurangzeb died on March 3, 1707, in Ahmednagar, marking the end of a long and tumultuous reign. His death led to a power vacuum and the subsequent decline of the Mughal Empire, as various factions vied for control.

Following Aurangzeb's death, a succession crisis ensued, leading to fragmentation and weakening of the Mughal Empire. The lack of a strong central authority allowed regional powers to assert their independence.

The Mughal Empire, weakened by internal strife and decline, faced invasion from Nadir Shah of Persia. This invasion further exemplified the collapse of the empire that Aurangzeb had expanded but could not sustain.

The British East India Company capitalized on the Mughal decline, leading to increased colonial control over India. Aurangzeb's legacy of a vast but unstable empire paved the way for foreign domination.