the delhi sultanate
After the Gupta empire fell in about 550, India again fragmented into many local kingdoms. Rival princes battled for control of the northern plain. Despite power struggles, Indian culture flourished. Hindu and Buddhist rulers spent huge sums to build and decorate magnificent temples. Trade networks linked India to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and China.
Muslim rule changes indian government and society
Muslim rule brought changes to Indian government and society. Sultans introduced Muslim traditions of government and society. Sultans introduced Muslim traditions to government. Many Turks, Persians, and Arabs migrated to India to serve as soldiers or officials. Trade between India and Muslim lands increased. During the Mongol raids of the 1200s, Persian and Greek learning. The newcomers helped create a brilliant civilization at Delhi, where Persian art and architecture flourished.
Muslims and hindus clash
The Muslim conquest of northern India inflicted disaster on Hindus and Buddhists. The widespread destruction of Buddhist monasteries contributed to the drastic decline of Buddhism as a major religion in India. During the most violent onslaughts, many Hindus were killed. Others may have converted to escape death. In time, though, relations became more peaceful.
Sikhism: A blend of religious beliefs
Islam
Hinduism
Sikhism
- Belief in one God
- Religious and moral duties defined in Five Pillars
- Belief in Heaven and Hell, and a Day of judgement
- No priests; all believers are religious equals
Hinduism
- Belief in many gods, all part of Brahman
- Emphasis on religious and moral duties, or dharma
- Belief in cycle of birth, death, and rebirth
Sikhism
- Belief in the "Unity of God"
- Belief in reincarnation
- Rejection of caste
The taj mahal
Shah Jahan began construction on this tomb for his wife in 1632, a year after her death. It took 22,000 workers about 20 years to complete the structure.