📚 Part of: Ancient Indian Rulers And Colonial History Mcqs

Who had purchased Qutb-ud-din Aibak?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Correct Answer: A) Muhammad Ghori.

Exam Relevance: UPSC Civil Services, SSC CGL, State PSC, NDA, CDS

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes:

Qutb-ud-din Aibak was a slave of Muhammad Ghori and later became the first Sultan of Delhi, founding the Slave Dynasty. This transition from slave to ruler is a significant aspect of early Delhi Sultanate history.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing Muhammad Ghori with other historical figures like Muhammad Ghazni.
  • Misunderstanding the relationship between Qutb-ud-din Aibak and Muhammad Ghori.
  • Overlooking the historical context of the Slave Dynasty and its origins.
Explanation:

Qutb-ud-din Aibak, who was originally a slave, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate and the Slave Dynasty. He was purchased by Muhammad Ghori, a powerful ruler of the Ghurid Empire, who recognized Aibak's potential and skills. Under Ghori's patronage, Aibak rose through the ranks and became one of his most trusted generals. After Ghori's death, Aibak took control of the territories in India and became the first Sultan of Delhi, founding the Slave Dynasty.

The Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk Dynasty, was unique in that its rulers were all former slaves who had risen to power. This dynasty marked the beginning of Muslim rule in India and laid the foundation for the Delhi Sultanate. Aibak's ascension to power was a significant event in Indian history, as it marked the transition from the Ghurid Empire's control to an independent Muslim sultanate in India.

Muhammad Ghori, whose full name was Muhammad of Ghor, was a ruler of the Ghurid Empire and a key figure in the early expansion of Muslim rule in India. He led several successful military campaigns into India, including the conquest of Delhi and Ajmer. Ghori's military campaigns and the establishment of his control over parts of northern India set the stage for the eventual establishment of the Delhi Sultanate.

It is important to distinguish between Muhammad Ghori and other historical figures such as Muhammad Ghazni (Mahmud of Ghazni), who lived in the 11th century and was known for his raids into India. While both were significant in the history of Muslim invasions of India, they were distinct individuals who lived in different periods and had different impacts on the region.

Understanding the historical context of the Slave Dynasty and the role of Muhammad Ghori in purchasing and nurturing Qutb-ud-din Aibak is crucial for comprehending the early phases of Muslim rule in India and the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate. This knowledge is essential for students of Indian history and those preparing for competitive examinations that cover Indian medieval history.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Muhammad Ghori, a prominent ruler of the Ghurid Empire, purchased Qutb-ud-din Aibak as a slave. Aibak later rose to prominence under Ghori's patronage and eventually became the first Sultan of Delhi, founding the Slave Dynasty. This historical fact is well-documented and forms a crucial part of early Delhi Sultanate history.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Muhammad Ghazni, also known as Mahmud of Ghazni, was a different historical figure who lived in the 11th century. He is known for his numerous raids into India but was not involved in the purchase of Qutb-ud-din Aibak. The confusion might arise due to the similar names and the fact that both were rulers who had significant influence in the Indian subcontinent.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Malik Kafur was a general in the Delhi Sultanate during the reign of Alauddin Khalji, much later than the time of Qutb-ud-din Aibak. He was not involved in the purchase of Aibak. The misconception here might stem from the fact that both Aibak and Kafur were part of the Delhi Sultanate, but they lived in different eras and had different roles.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Ghiyas-ud-din Balban was a later ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, specifically of the Mamluk dynasty, which succeeded the Slave Dynasty. He was not involved in the purchase of Qutb-ud-din Aibak. The confusion might arise from the fact that both Aibak and Balban were part of the Mamluk lineage, but they lived in different periods and had different roles within the Sultanate.

Mnemonic: MGA: Muhammad Ghori Acquired Aibak

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