Explanation: To understand the common features among Bengal, Awadh, and Hyderabad, it is essential to consider their historical context and the administrative systems they inherited from the Mughal Empire. These states were established by Mughal Nobles and Mansabdars, who were high-ranking officials in the Mughal administration. As these nobles gained power and autonomy, they often established their own states, which were influenced by but also distinct from the Mughal system.
One of the key features shared by these states was their suspicion of the administrative systems they had inherited from the Mughal Empire. This suspicion stemmed from a desire to establish their own authority and to avoid the centralizing tendencies of the Mughal administration. The Mughal system was highly centralized, with a strong emphasis on maintaining control over the provinces. However, the new states sought to establish their own power bases and often modified the Mughal administrative systems to suit their needs. This included changes in the way they managed their territories, appointed officials, and collected taxes.
Another common feature was their method of tax collection. Unlike the Mughal system, which relied heavily on state officers to collect taxes, these states often used local intermediaries or zamindars to collect taxes. This was a practical adaptation to the local conditions and helped in maintaining a more stable revenue collection system. The zamindars were local landholders who had a strong connection with the peasantry and were better equipped to manage the complexities of tax collection in their regions. This method of tax collection was more efficient and less prone to corruption compared to the Mughal system, which often faced issues with corruption and inefficiency among state officers.
It is important to note that while these states shared these common features, they also had their own unique characteristics. For example, Bengal was known for its rich agricultural economy and its role in the textile industry, while Awadh was known for its cultural and literary achievements. Hyderabad, on the other hand, was known for its strong military and its role in the Deccan region.
In conclusion, the common features among Bengal, Awadh, and Hyderabad were their suspicion of the inherited administrative systems and their unique methods of tax collection. These features were a result of their desire to establish their own authority and to adapt to the local conditions. Understanding these features is crucial for comprehending the historical and administrative context of these states during the Mughal era and beyond.