Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Arrange the following chronologically: A. Muhammad Shah B. Jahandar Shah C. Alamgir II D. Ahmadshah
Solution & Analysis
Answer: B
Concept
The period of the 'Later Mughals' after 1707 was marked by extreme instability, brief reigns, and the dominance of kingmaking nobles. Keeping track of the chronology is key to understanding the empire's final decline.Explanation
1. Jahandar Shah (1712-13): Successor to Bahadur Shah I.
2. Muhammad Shah 'Rangeela' (1719-48): Longest reign among later Mughals, saw Nadir Shah's invasion.
3. Ahmad Shah (1748-54): Son of Muhammad Shah, faced repeated Afghan invasions.
4. Alamgir II (1754-59): Ruler during the Battle of Plassey.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Jahandar Shah belongs to the very first phase of decline immediately after 1707.
Logic 2: Muhammad Shah follows after the chaotic era of the Sayyid Brothers. Ahmad Shah and Alamgir II represent the mid-18th century collapse when regional powers like the Marathas and British began dominating.