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U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2012

Political Legitimacy and Diplomacy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

On whose coins the name of the last Caliph of Baghdad appeared for the first time?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Medieval Islamic rulers often sought religious and political legitimacy by obtaining a 'Mansur' (letter of investiture) from the Caliph, the symbolic head of the Islamic world.

Explanation In 1229 CE, Iltutmish received recognition from the Abbasid Caliph Al-Mustansir. Following this, he included the Caliph's name on his silver Tankas to formalize his legal authority.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Qutbuddin Aibak ruled as a representative of the Ghorids and didn't establish independent coinage with Caliph recognition.
Logic 2: Iltutmish's inclusion of the Caliph's name was a strategic move to distinguish himself from other claimants to the throne and consolidate his legitimacy.

Active Recall

Question

What was the significance of the Caliph's name on Sultanate coins?

Answer

It served as a public declaration that the Sultan was the legally recognized deputy of the Caliph, granting him religious and political prestige.

Core Insight

The name of the Caliph continued to appear on coins long after the Caliphate itself was destroyed by the Mongols in 1258, highlighting its enduring symbolic value.

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