SOAS Research Online

Abstract

The first chapter of the thesis deals with Shahjahan's rebellious occupation of the provinces of Bihar and Bengal which he held for a temporary period till his flight to the Deccan. The second chapter is concerned with the Portuguese activities in Bengal and their expulsion from Hugli in 1632. The condition of the Portuguese after their defeat in 1632 is also discussed. The third chapter reviews the Mughal relationship with the Bihar Zamindars of Bhojpur and Palamau. The fourth chapter is divided into two sections. The first section discusses the Mughal policy towards Assam from the time of the first Ahom-Mughal war till the outbreak of the war of succession. The second section deals with the Mughal relationship with Arakan. The fifth chapter attempts to give an account of the actual functioning of the Mughal administrative machinery in Bengal and Bihar under Shahjahan. While discussing the functions of the Mughal governors, Shah Shuja's long viceroyalty in Bengal has been treated separately. The sixth chapter gives an account of the economic condition of the provinces. It depicts the condition of the industries of Bihar and Bengal and traces the growth of English trade. The seventh chapter attempts to draw a picture of the socio-religious condition of the Muslims of the provinces during the time of Shahjahan.