Question 41
The arrival of Babur into India led to the
1. introduction of gunpowder in the subcontinent
2. introduction of the arch and dome in the region's architecture
3. establishment of Timurid dynasty in the region
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
AOptions
BSolution
Let's analyze the statements regarding Babur's arrival in India:
1. introduction of gunpowder in the subcontinent: This statement is incorrect. Gunpowder was present and used in India before Babur's arrival. For instance, the Bahmani Kingdom and other regional powers had employed gunpowder and firearms. However, Babur's effective and strategic use of artillery (cannons) and gunpowder in battles like Panipat certainly revolutionized warfare in India, but he did not 'introduce' it.
2. introduction of the arch and dome in the region's architecture: This statement is incorrect. The architectural styles incorporating arches and domes were introduced to India much earlier with the advent of Islamic rule during the Delhi Sultanate period (e.g., Qutub Minar complex, Alai Darwaza). These features were prevalent long before the Mughals.
3. establishment of Timurid dynasty in the region: This statement is correct. Babur was a direct descendant of Timur (Tamerlane) on his father's side. When he established his rule in India by defeating Ibrahim Lodi at the Battle of Panipat in 1526, he founded the Mughal Empire, which was essentially a branch of the Timurid dynasty in India.
Therefore, only statement 3 is correct.
CStrategy
For questions about historical impacts or 'introductions' by new rulers or dynasties, be precise about what was genuinely new versus what was already present or merely popularized/enhanced. Critical evaluation of terms like 'introduction' is crucial.
DSyllabus Analysis
This question falls under Indian History, specifically Medieval India, focusing on the advent of the Mughal Empire and its initial impact on the subcontinent.
EQuestion Analysis
Medium to Difficult. This question requires careful distinction between the introduction of a technology/style and its more effective or widespread use, which can be a common point of confusion.