Study Guides

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn about the foundation of the Mughal Empire, early Mughal rule and the way in which this had developed by the late 17th century. They end the unit by reflecting on the role played by violence during the expansion of Mughal rule in India.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain the methods used by Emperor Humayun to gain control over India.

Key Notes

• The Mughal Empire suffered from political instability at the beginning of Humayun's reign.
• Humayun lost control of the empire in 1540 and was forced into exile.
• Humayun used diplomacy to gain support from the Persian Empire.
• Humayun reconquered India in 1555 at a time when political instability weakened his enemies.

Vocabulary To Learn

• political instability: political instability refers to situations where a government is not very secure or there is no clear leader in a country
• rebelled: someone who fights against the government or ruler in their country has rebelled
• diplomacy: diplomacy refers to how leaders manage relationships with other rulers and countries; diplomacy can involve making agreements with rulers of other states.
• exile: exile involves being sent or kept away from your own country, usually for political reasons
• convert: to convert is to change to a new religion or belief

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Students assume political instability is only the result of foreign powers challenging the leaders of a country.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Akbar the Great Study Guide
• Governance and religious policy under Akbar Study Guide
• Mughal rule in India Study Guide
• The foundation of the Mughal Empire Study Guide
• The Mughal empire in the 17th century Study Guide