Maratha Empire History Timeline and Biographies

1674

Foundation of the Maratha Empire

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj crowned himself as the king of the Maratha Empire on June 6, 1674, at Raigad Fort. This event marked the official establishment of the Maratha Empire, which aimed to establish a Hindu kingdom in the face of Mughal oppression.

1680

Death of Shivaji Maharaj

Shivaji Maharaj passed away on April 3, 1680. His death led to a power struggle among his successors, but his legacy continued to inspire the Maratha Empire's expansion and resistance against the Mughals.

1707

Decline of Mughal Power

The death of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1707 created a power vacuum in India, which the Maratha Empire capitalized on, expanding its territories significantly across the subcontinent during the early 18th century.

1714

Establishment of the Peshwa System

Balaji Vishwanath became the Peshwa (Prime Minister) of the Maratha Empire in 1714, marking the beginning of a new administrative structure that would strengthen the empire's governance and military capabilities.

1737

Maratha Victory at the Battle of Bhopal

The Maratha Empire achieved a significant victory against the Mughal forces at the Battle of Bhopal, further establishing its dominance in central India and expanding its influence over the region.

1740

Rise of the Peshwa Baji Rao I

Baji Rao I became Peshwa in 1740 and expanded the Maratha Empire to its zenith, launching successful military campaigns against the Mughals, Nizam of Hyderabad, and other regional powers.

1758

Capture of Delhi by the Marathas

The Maratha Empire captured Delhi in 1758, marking a significant moment in its history as it took control of the Mughal capital and asserted its power over northern India.

1761

The Third Battle of Panipat, fought on January 14, 1761, was a devastating defeat for the Maratha Empire against the Durrani Empire. This battle significantly weakened the Maratha power and led to a temporary decline in their influence.

1774

Reorganization of the Maratha Empire

After the Third Battle of Panipat, the Maratha Empire underwent reorganization under the leadership of the Peshwas, leading to the revival of their power and influence across India once again.

1796

Treaty of Salbai

The Treaty of Salbai was signed in 1782, marking the end of hostilities between the Maratha Empire and the British East India Company, establishing a period of relative peace and stability for the Marathas.

1802

Treaty of Bassein

The Treaty of Bassein was signed in 1802, which marked the beginning of British influence over the Maratha Empire, leading to the eventual decline of Maratha power in India.

1818

The Maratha Empire officially fell after the Third Anglo-Maratha War, culminating in 1818 when the British defeated the Marathas, leading to the establishment of British rule over India.

1857

The Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 saw remnants of the Maratha Empire joining forces against British rule, highlighting the enduring legacy and spirit of resistance that the Maratha Empire had instilled in the Indian populace.

1947

With India's independence in 1947, the Maratha Empire's legacy continued to be celebrated, influencing modern Indian identity and culture, particularly in Maharashtra, where the Maratha heritage remains a source of pride.