The Crisis and Restoration of Mughals

Timeline of Humayun's Battles: From Devara to Sirhind

The correct chronological order of Humayun's battles is: Devara (1532), Chausa (1539), Kanauj (1540), and Sirhind (1555). These battles track his rise, fall, and eventual return to the Mughal throne.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class VII: Our Pasts - II

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Arrange properly as per dates of four important battles fought by Humayun, the names of battlefields are given below-

[41st B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1996]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Humayun's military history is a story of early success, complete collapse, and a final return. Tracking these four battles shows the cycle of his reign.

Authentic Source Evidence


1. Battle of Devara (1532): An early victory where he defeated Afghan rebels.
2. Battle of Chausa (1539): A major defeat at the hands of Sher Shah Suri.
3. Battle of Kanauj (1540): The final blow that forced Humayun to flee to Persia.
4. Battle of Sirhind (1555): The victory against Sikandar Shah Suri that allowed Humayun to reclaim the throne.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Devara (1532) established his initial authority. Chausa (1539) and Kanauj (1540) mark the period of his exile.

  • Logic 2: Sirhind (1555) is the concluding battle that restored Mughal rule just before his accidental death.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Which battle officially ended Humayun's first reign?"

    The Battle of Kanauj in 1540 led to the total takeover of Delhi by Sher Shah Suri.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Humayun is the only Mughal emperor to lose an entire empire and win it back, with the Battle of Sirhind being the pivotal moment of restoration."

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