Question

Why did the Delhi Sultans not expand their frontiers in the earlier phase of their rule?

Answer 1

● In the early thirteenth century the control of the Delhi Sultans did not go beyond heavily fortified towns occupied by garrisons.

● The sultans seldom controlled the hinterland of the cities.

● They were solely dependent upon tribute or plunder for supplies.

● Controlling garisson towns in distant Bengal and Sind from Delhi was extremely difficult.

● Rebellion, war and bad weather could snap weak communication routes.

● The state was also challenged by Mongol invasions from Afghanistan.

● The governers rebelled frequently at any sign of the Sultan's weakness.

● The Sultanate barely survived these challenges.