Who among the following known as the "slave of a slave"?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of the Delhi Sultanate and the origins of its rulers.

Correct Answer: C) Ilitutmish

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, Bank PO, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The title "slave of a slave" is a historical reference to Ilitutmish, also known as Iltutmish, who was a significant figure in the Delhi Sultanate and the founder of the Slave Dynasty. To understand this title, it is essential to delve into the historical context of the Delhi Sultanate and the origins of its rulers.

The Delhi Sultanate was a powerful Islamic empire that ruled large parts of the Indian subcontinent from the early 13th to the early 16th century. The Slave Dynasty, which was the first of the five dynasties that ruled the Delhi Sultanate, was unique in that its rulers were originally slaves who rose to power through their military and administrative capabilities. The term "slave" in this context refers to the fact that these individuals were initially slaves before they became rulers.

Ilitutmish, born in Central Asia, was captured and sold into slavery. He was eventually purchased by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi and the founder of the Slave Dynasty. Under Aibak's patronage, Ilitutmish rose through the ranks due to his military prowess and administrative skills. After Aibak's death, Ilitutmish became the Sultan of Delhi, marking the beginning of his reign and the continuation of the Slave Dynasty.

The title "slave of a slave" is a reflection of Ilitutmish's humble origins and the path he took to become a powerful ruler. It underscores the remarkable journey from being a slave to becoming the Sultan of Delhi. This title is not just a historical curiosity but also a testament to the social mobility that existed within the Delhi Sultanate, where individuals could rise to positions of great power and influence regardless of their origins.

Understanding the historical context of the Delhi Sultanate and the Slave Dynasty is crucial to comprehending the significance of Ilitutmish's title. The Slave Dynasty was characterized by the rise of individuals who were originally slaves, and Ilitutmish's story is emblematic of this phenomenon. His reign was marked by significant administrative reforms and military campaigns that expanded the territory of the Delhi Sultanate.

In summary, the title "slave of a slave" is a historical reference to Ilitutmish, highlighting his origins and the path he took to become a powerful ruler. This title encapsulates the social and political dynamics of the Delhi Sultanate and the remarkable rise of individuals from humble beginnings to positions of great power and influence.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Muhammad bin Qasim was a general who led the Umayyad conquest of Sindh and Multan in the early 8th century. He is not known as the "slave of a slave." This title is not associated with his historical role.
Option B: Mahmud of Ghazni was a prominent Muslim ruler and military leader who conducted numerous raids into the Indian subcontinent. He is not known as the "slave of a slave," as he was not a slave but a powerful ruler in his own right.
Option C: Ilitutmish, also known as Iltutmish, was a slave who rose to become the Sultan of Delhi. He is known as the "slave of a slave" due to his origins and the path he took to power. This title reflects his humble beginnings and his eventual rise to sovereignty.
Option D: Qutub-ud-din Aibak was the first ruler of the Slave Dynasty and a former slave himself. However, he is not specifically known as the "slave of a slave." This title is more commonly associated with Ilitutmish, who succeeded him and continued the Slave Dynasty.

Mnemonic: S-S-S: Slave of a Slave, Sultan (Ilitutmish)

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