Thursday, September 10, 2020
Sher Shah's life
Sher Shah Suri, also known as Sher Khan, was a remarkable military and administrative leader in medieval India. Here's an overview of his life and achievements:
Early Life of Sher Shah:
Sher Shah Suri was born in 1486 in Sasaram, Bihar, India. His original name was Farid Khan. He belonged to a Pashtun (Pathan) tribal family.
Military Career:
Sher Shah initially served in the government of the Sultan of Delhi but later became involved in various conflicts and military campaigns. He gained military experience and skills during these years.
Rise to Power:
In 1538, Sher Shah seized control of Bihar and later expanded his territories. He defeated Humayun, the Mughal emperor, in the Battle of Chausa (1539) and the Battle of Bilgram (1540). These victories established Sher Shah's rule over northern India.
Sher Shah's Administrative Reforms:
Sher Shah was not just a capable military leader but also an excellent administrator. He introduced several administrative reforms, including a new revenue system based on measurement of land and productivity, a well-organized postal system, and the introduction of silver coins known as "Rupiya," which became the precursor to the modern Indian Rupee.
Infrastructure Development:
One of Sher Shah's most significant achievements was the construction of the Grand Trunk Road, a vast road network connecting Bengal in the east to the Punjab region in the west. This road facilitated trade, communication, and administration across his empire.
Legacy of Sher Shah:
Sher Shah's rule was cut short by his untimely death in 1545 due to an accidental explosion of gunpowder. Despite his relatively short reign, his administrative reforms, especially in revenue and governance, were influential and laid the foundation for the Mughal administrative system under Akbar, the grandson of Humayun.
Sher Shah Suri's life and achievements had a lasting impact on India's history, shaping the administrative and economic landscape of the country for years to come. His legacy as a reformer and a military strategist continues to be remembered in India's historical narratives.