Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 327

Who defeated Humayun to become the ruler of Delhi and establish his own dynasty?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the historical period of the Mughal Empire and the key figures who challenged it.

Correct Answer: A) Sher Shah Suri.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, Bank PO, Railway Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The historical context of the question revolves around the period of the Mughal Empire in India, specifically focusing on the reign of Humayun and the rise of Sher Shah Suri. Humayun, the second Mughal emperor, faced significant challenges during his rule, including the loss of his empire to Sher Shah Suri.

Sher Shah Suri, originally named Farid Khan, was an Afghan warrior who rose to prominence in the early 16th century. He was a powerful military leader and an efficient administrator. In 1539, Sher Shah Suri defeated Humayun in the Battle of Chausa, which was a significant turning point in the history of the Mughal Empire. This battle was followed by another decisive victory in the Battle of Bilgram in 1540, which led to the complete expulsion of Humayun from India.

After defeating Humayun, Sher Shah Suri established the Sur Empire, which ruled over much of northern India. His reign was marked by significant administrative and military reforms. He introduced a new system of land revenue, improved the coinage system, and constructed a network of roads and rest houses to facilitate trade and communication. Sher Shah Suri's rule was relatively short-lived, lasting only five years, but his contributions to the administrative and military systems of India had a lasting impact.

It is important to note that the period of Sher Shah Suri's rule is often seen as a significant interlude between the reigns of Babur and Akbar, the first and third Mughal emperors, respectively. Humayun, after being defeated by Sher Shah Suri, sought refuge in Persia and later returned to India to reclaim his empire, which he did after Sher Shah Suri's death in 1545.

Understanding the historical context and the key figures involved in the events leading to the defeat of Humayun is crucial for comprehending the political and administrative changes that occurred during this period in Indian history. The rise of Sher Shah Suri and the establishment of the Sur Empire represent a significant chapter in the history of the Mughal Empire and the broader history of India.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Sher Shah Suri defeated Humayun in the Battle of Chausa and later in the Battle of Bilgram, which allowed him to establish the Sur Empire and become the ruler of Delhi.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Ananga Pala was a ruler of the Pala Empire in Bengal and had no direct involvement in the events that led to the defeat of Humayun.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Khizr Khan was an earlier ruler who established the Sayyid dynasty in Delhi, but he did not defeat Humayun.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Genghis Khan was a Mongol ruler who lived in the 13th century and was not involved in the events of the 16th century when Humayun was defeated by Sher Shah Suri.

Mnemonic: S-S: Sher Shah Suri succeeded in defeating Humayun.

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