Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 309

Who was the last ruler of the Slave Dynasty?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the lineage and the end of the Slave Dynasty.

Correct Answer: D) Balban's grandson.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Slave Dynasty, also known as the Mamluk Dynasty, was the first dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate in India. It was established by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, who was a slave of Muhammad Ghori, and it lasted from 1206 to 1290. The dynasty was characterized by the rule of several notable sultans, including Iltutmish, Razia Sultana, and Balban.

Qutb-ud-din Aibak was the first sultan of the Slave Dynasty, and he laid the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate. He was succeeded by his son-in-law, Iltutmish, who further consolidated the power of the dynasty. Iltutmish was followed by his daughter, Razia Sultana, who was the first and only female ruler of the Slave Dynasty. Despite her capable rule, she faced opposition and was eventually deposed.

After Razia Sultana, the dynasty saw the rule of several other sultans, including Nasiruddin Mahmud and Ghiyasuddin Balban. Balban was a powerful ruler who strengthened the administration and military of the Sultanate. He ruled from 1266 to 1287 and was succeeded by his grandson, Muiz ud din Qaiqabad.

Muiz ud din Qaiqabad, Balban's grandson, was the last ruler of the Slave Dynasty. He ruled from 1287 to 1290. During his reign, the dynasty faced internal strife and external threats, which ultimately led to its downfall. After Qaiqabad's death, the Khalji dynasty, founded by Alauddin Khalji, came to power, marking the end of the Slave Dynasty.

Understanding the historical succession of the Slave Dynasty is crucial for comprehending the political landscape of medieval India. The Slave Dynasty was significant in establishing the Delhi Sultanate and laying the groundwork for subsequent dynasties. The end of the Slave Dynasty with the rule of Balban's grandson signifies the transition to a new era in Indian history.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Razia Sultana was a ruler of the Slave Dynasty, but she was not the last. She ruled from 1236 to 1240 and was succeeded by other rulers of the dynasty.
  • Option B: Ghiasuddin Balban was a significant ruler of the Slave Dynasty, reigning from 1266 to 1287. However, he was not the last ruler; his grandson succeeded him.
  • Option C: Alauddin Khalji was not a ruler of the Slave Dynasty. He was the founder of the Khalji dynasty, which succeeded the Slave Dynasty.
  • Option D: Balban's grandson, Muiz ud din Qaiqabad, was the last ruler of the Slave Dynasty. He ruled from 1287 to 1290, marking the end of the Slave Dynasty and the beginning of the Khalji dynasty.

Mnemonic: Remember "B" for Balban and his lineage.

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