The Delhi Sultanate: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Medieval History)

Explanation

Muhammad bin Tughlaq (reigned 1325-1351) was a controversial Sultan of Delhi known for his ambitious yet often failed policies, including the introduction of token currency and the shifting of the capital to Daulatabad. While his reforms aimed at modernizing administration, they led to economic instability and widespread discontent. Assertion (A) is correct: Muhammad bin Tughlaq introduced a variety of coins during his reign, including a gold coin referred to as the Dinar by Ibn Batutah. His interest in monetary innovations is well-documented. Reason (R) is incorrect: Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s plan to introduce token currency was implemented using copper and brass coins, not gold. The intention behind issuing token currency was to address a shortage of precious metals and not to promote trade with West Asian and North African countries.

Explanation

The Lodi Dynasty (1451-1526) was the last Afghan ruling dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate. It was founded by Bahlol Lodi, Which marked the beginning of Afghan rule in Delhi, and ended with the defeat of Ibrahim Lodi at the First Battle of Panipat, which led to the establishment of the Mughal Empire.

Option (c) is correct The correct chronological order of the rulers of the Lodi dynasty are as follows:

Bahlol Khan Lodi (1451-1489) established Afghan rule in Delhi after overthrowing the Sayyid Dynasty. Sikandar Shah Lodi (1489-1517)was son of Bahlol Lodi. He is known for administrative efficiency and establishing the city of Agra in 1504. Ibrahim Lodi (1517-1526) was son of Sikandar Lodi.His defeat by Babur at the First Battle of Panipat (1526) marked the end of the Delhi Sultanate and the beginning of the Mughal Empire.