Chronological Syncretism in Indian History

Iltutmish, Taimur, and Vasco da Gama | History Timeline

Only statement 1 is correct: Chengiz Khan reached the Indus during Iltutmish's reign (1221). Timur invaded in 1398 (not during MBT's reign), and Vasco da Gama arrived in 1498 (after Deva Raya II).

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Consider the following statements:
1. It was during the reign of Iltutmish that Chengiz Khan reached the Indus in pursuit of the fugitive Khwarezm prince.
2. It was during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughluq that Taimur occupied Multan and crossed the Indus.
3. It was during the reign of Deva Raya II of Vijayanagara Empire that Vasco da Gama reached the coast of Kerala.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[UPSC CSE Prelims 2021]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Historical synchronization involves matching external events (invasions/discoveries) with the contemporary Indian rulers. This is a common UPSC testing area.

Authentic Source Evidence


Chengiz Khan arrived at the Indus in 1221 (Iltutmish's era). Timur invaded in 1398 (Nasiruddin Mahmud's era). Vasco da Gama reached Calicut in 1498 (long after Deva Raya II's death in 1446).

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Statement 1 is correct. Iltutmish diplomatically avoided a conflict with Chengiz Khan by refusing to aid the Khwarezm Prince Jalaluddin.

  • Logic 2: Statement 2 is incorrect. MBT ruled till 1351. Taimur's invasion happened in 1398 during the reign of the last Tughlaq, Nasiruddin Mahmud.

  • Logic 3: Statement 3 is incorrect. Deva Raya II ruled from 1422-1446. Vasco da Gama arrived in 1498 during the Tuluva period (though Saluva Narasimha was recently succeeded by the regency).
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Why did Iltutmish refuse to help the Khwarezm prince?"

    To protect the infant Delhi Sultanate from a devastating invasion by the superior forces of Chengiz Khan.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Survival of the Delhi Sultanate in its early stages was due to the 'wait and watch' policy of Iltutmish regarding the Mongol expansion."

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