Explanations:Ranjit Singh, who ruled the Sikh Empire from 1801 to 1839, was a significant figure in the history of the Indian subcontinent. His reign was marked by territorial expansion and consolidation of power. Understanding the territories he conquered is essential for comprehending the extent of the Sikh Empire's influence during his rule.
Ladakh, a region in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent, was conquered by Ranjit Singh in 1834. This conquest was part of his strategy to secure the northern borders of the Sikh Empire and to gain control over the trade routes that passed through the region. The inclusion of Ladakh in the Sikh Empire also helped to establish a buffer zone against potential threats from the north.
Lahore, the capital of Punjab, was another significant conquest by Ranjit Singh. He captured Lahore in 1799, which marked the beginning of the Sikh Empire's expansion into the Punjab region. Lahore was a strategic and cultural center, and its capture was a crucial step in consolidating the Sikh Empire's power in the region. The city became the capital of the Sikh Empire under Ranjit Singh, symbolizing the shift in power from the Mughals to the Sikhs.
Ludhiana, on the other hand, was already under Sikh control before Ranjit Singh's reign. It was part of the territories controlled by the Sikh Misls, who were the precursors to the Sikh Empire. Therefore, Ludhiana was not a new conquest by Ranjit Singh, but rather an existing part of the Sikh territories.
The correct answer, "Only (A) & (B)," accurately reflects the territories that were conquered by Ranjit Singh. This answer highlights the significance of Ladakh and Lahore in the context of the Sikh Empire's expansion and consolidation of power. Understanding these conquests is crucial for comprehending the historical context and the territorial extent of the Sikh Empire under Ranjit Singh's rule.