[Solved] What was a Munjaniq? | Medieval Siege Warfare

What was a munjaniq in medieval period?

[UPSC CDS II 2022]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Before the arrival of gunpowder and cannons, specialized machinery was used to breach the thick walls of forts. The Turko-Afghans introduced several Central Asian siege technologies to India.

Authentic Source Evidence

A Munjaniq was a type of catapult or stone-throwing machine. It was a key piece of siege equipment used by the Delhi Sultans to launch large boulders or fireballs into fortified cities.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option B is correct. It functioned on the principle of mechanical leverage to throw projectiles.

Logic 2: It was distinct from cannons (which used gunpowder) and was widely used during the 13th and 14th centuries before the artillery revolution.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Which other machine was commonly used alongside the munjaniq?"

The 'Arrada' was a smaller, more mobile version of the catapult often used for closer-range bombardment.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The introduction of the munjaniq fundamentally altered the advantage of defensive fortresses in the Indian subcontinent."

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