Explanation: The Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk Dynasty, was the first of the five dynasties that ruled the Delhi Sultanate in medieval India. The dynasty was founded by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, who was a slave of the Ghurid Sultan Muhammad Ghori. Aibak established the capital in Lahore, which was a strategic location due to its proximity to the Ghurid Empire and its control over the Punjab region.
However, the capital was later shifted to Delhi by Shams-ud-Iltutmish, who was a Mamluk (slave) of Aibak and later became the Sultan of Delhi. Iltutmish, also known as Shams-ud-din Iltutmish, was a significant figure in the early history of the Delhi Sultanate. He ruled from 1211 to 1236 and is credited with consolidating the Sultanate's power and expanding its territory.
The shift of the capital from Lahore to Delhi was a strategic decision made by Iltutmish. Delhi was a more central location within the Sultanate, providing better control over the diverse regions under his rule. Additionally, Delhi had a strong historical and cultural significance, being the site of previous Hindu and Muslim kingdoms. By establishing the capital in Delhi, Iltutmish aimed to strengthen the Sultanate's administrative and military control over the region.
Iltutmish's reign was marked by several important achievements, including the construction of the Qutb Minar, which was initially started by Qutb-ud-din Aibak. He also introduced the silver tanka, a standardized currency that facilitated trade and commerce within the Sultanate. His rule laid the foundation for the subsequent rulers of the Delhi Sultanate, including his daughter Raziya Sultan, who became the first female ruler of the Sultanate.
In summary, the shift of the capital from Lahore to Delhi was a significant event in the history of the Delhi Sultanate, and it was Shams-ud-Iltutmish who made this strategic move. This decision had long-lasting implications for the political and administrative structure of the Sultanate, contributing to its stability and expansion during the medieval period.