The eighteenth century was a transformative era in the history of the Indian subcontinent, characterized by political fragmentation, shifting alliances, and the rising influence of European colonial powers, particularly the British and the French.

Background

Decline of the Mughal Empire

1.Aurangzeb’s Death and Its Aftermath: The death of Emperor Aurangzeb in 1707 marked the beginning of the decline of the Mughal Empire. The central authority weakened, leading to the fracturing of the empire and the rise of autonomous regional powers.

2.Struggle for Supremacy: The power vacuum resulted in fierce competition among viceroys (subahdars), local rulers (nawabs), and regional dynasties for territorial control and dominance.

Rise of European Colonial Powers

1.British and French Involvement: In the mid-eighteenth century, the British East India Company and the French East India Company became increasingly involved in local Indian politics and conflicts, seeking to expand their commercial interests and territorial holdings.