Delhi Sultanate
Definition
The Delhi Sultanate was an Islamic empire based in Delhi that stretched over large parts of the Indian subcontinent for 320 years (1206–1526). Five dynasties ruled over Delhi Sultanate sequentially, including Qutb al-Din Aibak's Mamluk dynasty.
Analogy
Consider Delhi Sultanate as a long-running TV series with five seasons. Each season represents one dynasty with its unique storyline but all contributing towards one grand narrative - Islamic rule over India.
Related terms
Mamluk Dynasty: Slave dynasty under Qutb al-Din Aibak; first line of rulers in the Delhi Sultanate.
Islamic Empire: An empire that is politically controlled by a Muslim ruler.
Indian Subcontinent: The southern region of Asia, which is situated on the Indian Plate and projecting southwards into the Indian Ocean from the Himalayas.
"Delhi Sultanate" appears in:
Study guides (2)
Practice Questions (5)
- What was a significant impact of the Delhi Sultanate's rule in India during this period?
- How did Vijayanagara Empire differ fundamentally from Delhi Sultanate despite both emerging around similar timelines?
- What was a significant impact of the establishment of Delhi Sultanate in South Asia during 1200-1450?
- Which political system was utilized by both Aztec Empire and Delhi Sultanate during 1200-1450?
- How might the historical trajectory have changed if the Delhi Sultanate hadn't instituted Islamic law (Sharia) during their rule in India?
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