H. G. (Henry George) Keene
The Fall of the Moghul Empire of Hindustan
"The Fall of the Moghul Empire of Hindustan" by H. G. Keene is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work provides a detailed exploration of the disintegration of the Moghul Empire in India, focusing particularly on the period from the murder of Emperor Alamgir II in 1759 to the occupation of Delhi by British forces in 1803. It covers the political turmoil and power struggles that characterized the era, offering insight into the events leading to the rise of British influence in the region. The opening of the text sets the stage for this crucial period in Indian history, outlining the geographical and political landscape of Hindustan during the 18th century. Keene introduces the significant challenges faced by the Moghul rulers, including rising regional powers like the Mahrattas and internal conflicts among various factions. He emphasizes the role of pivotal events such as the Afghan invasions and the shifting allegiances among local chieftains, which ultimately contributed to the empire's downfall. This section serves as a foundation for understanding the complexities of the era, highlighting the transition from a thriving empire to one marked by chaos and fragmentation.