Part of: Delhi Gk set 20

What is the time period of Tughlaq Dynasty in the Delhi Sultanate?

Category: Delhi Gk

Hint: Consider the reign of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, the founder of the dynasty.

Correct Answer: B) 1320-1399

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Tughlaq Dynasty was a significant period in the history of the Delhi Sultanate, which ruled a large part of the Indian subcontinent from the 13th to the 16th century. The Delhi Sultanate was a series of Muslim dynasties that ruled from Delhi, and the Tughlaq Dynasty was one of the most prominent among them.

The Tughlaq Dynasty was founded by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, who ascended to the throne in 1320. He was a powerful ruler who expanded the territory of the Delhi Sultanate and established a strong administrative system. Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq was succeeded by his son, Muhammad bin Tughlaq, who ruled from 1325 to 1351. Muhammad bin Tughlaq was known for his ambitious but often controversial policies, including the transfer of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad and the introduction of token currency.

After Muhammad bin Tughlaq, the Tughlaq Dynasty continued under the rule of Firuz Shah Tughlaq, who reigned from 1351 to 1388. Firuz Shah Tughlaq was known for his administrative reforms, public works, and religious tolerance. He also expanded the territory of the Delhi Sultanate and built numerous public works, including canals, mosques, and schools.

The Tughlaq Dynasty came to an end in 1399 with the invasion of Timur, a Central Asian conqueror who defeated the last Tughlaq ruler, Nasir-ud-din Mahmud Shah Tughlaq. The invasion of Timur marked the end of the Tughlaq Dynasty and led to a period of political instability in the Delhi Sultanate.

Understanding the timeline of the Tughlaq Dynasty is crucial for comprehending the broader history of the Delhi Sultanate and the political and social changes that occurred during this period. The Tughlaq Dynasty was a significant era that saw both expansion and consolidation of power, as well as the implementation of various administrative and social reforms.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. The years 1290-1320 correspond to the reign of the Khilji Dynasty, not the Tughlaq Dynasty. The Tughlaq Dynasty began in 1320 with the ascension of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq.
  • Option B: This option is correct. The Tughlaq Dynasty ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1320 to 1399, encompassing the reigns of Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq, Muhammad bin Tughlaq, and Firuz Shah Tughlaq.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The years 1206-1290 correspond to the Mamluk Dynasty, which preceded the Khilji and Tughlaq Dynasties. The Tughlaq Dynasty began in 1320.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The correct time period for the Tughlaq Dynasty is provided in Option B, so "None of the above" is not the right choice.

Mnemonic: T for Tughlaq, T for Time: 1320-1399

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