Trace the reasons for decline of Maratha Empire in 19th Century
The Maratha Empire was founded by the Maratha warrior-king Shivaji in the 17th Century. It reached its peak under the rule of the Peshwa Baji Rao I in the early 18th Century, but by the mid-19th century, the empire had declined significantly and led to the establishment of British colonial rule over most of India.
Reasons Behind the Decline of the Maratha Empire
Weak Successors: The Successors of Shivaji were very weak and inefficient. Real power passed into the hands of the Peshwa. Under Sahu, the office of the Peshwa also became hereditary.
Lack of Centralization: One of the main factors contributing to the decline of the Maratha Empire was the absence of centralised administration.
Third Battle of Panipat: The Maratha power received a staggering blow at the Battle of Panipat in 1761. Marathas lost the cream of their army and their political prestige suffered.
Internal Turmoil: In the absence of a settled system, the state descended into a terrible engine of oppression.
External Factors: Most of all, their defeat at the hands of Afghans gave an opportunity to the English East India Company to consolidate their power in Bengal and South India.
Economic Instability: The Maratha Empire had severe economic instability due to falling agricultural and commerce revenues and rising military costs.
The decline of the Maratha Empire was a significant event in Indian history. It was the result of a combination of internal and external factors which ultimately paved the way for the establishment of British colonial rule over most of India.