Top GK Questions and Answers on the Maratha Empires

The Maratha Empire, established in 1674 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, emerged as a formidable force in the 17th and 18th centuries in India. Originating in the western region of Maharashtra, the empire expanded rapidly under Shivaji's leadership, challenging the Mughal dominance. Known for their military prowess and administrative acumen, the Marathas implemented innovative taxation systems like 'Chauth' and 'Sardeshmukhi' to consolidate their power. The empire's influence waned after the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761 and eventually succumbed to British colonial forces in 1818, marking the end of a significant era in Indian history.

Below are the top multiple-choice questions (MCQs) about the Maratha Empire, each accompanied by its answer and a brief explanation:

1. Who established the Maratha Empire?

a) Bajirao I
b) Shivaji
c) Sambhaji
d) Shahu

Answer: b) Shivaji

Explanation: Shivaji founded the Maratha Empire in the 17th century by consolidating various regional chieftains and establishing a strong administrative system.

2. What was the capital of Shivaji’s kingdom?

a) Pune
b) Raigad
c) Satara
d) Kolhapur

Answer: b) Raigad

Explanation: Raigad was chosen as the capital by Shivaji after its fortification. It served as a strategic and administrative centre of the Maratha Empire.

3. Which treaty was signed between Shivaji and the Mughals in 1665?

a) Treaty of Purandar
b) Treaty of Salbai
c) Treaty of Bassein
d) Treaty of Devgaon

Answer: a) Treaty of Purandar

Explanation: The 1665 Treaty of Purandar was an agreement between Shivaji and Jai Singh I, who represented the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. As part of the treaty, Shivaji agreed to surrender 23 forts to the Mughals.

4. What was the title assumed by Shivaji after his coronation in 1674?

a) Chhatrapati
b) Maharajadhiraj
c) Peshwa
d) Raja

Answer: a) Chhatrapati

Explanation: In 1674, during his coronation at Raigad, Shivaji assumed the title "Chhatrapati," representing his independent rule and supreme leadership over the Maratha Empire.

5. The Ashta Pradhan system was introduced by:

a) Balaji Vishwanath
b) Shivaji
c) Sambhaji
d) Rajaram

Answer: b) Shivaji

Explanation: The Ashta Pradhan was an eight-member council that assisted Shivaji in administration, comprising key ministers like the Peshwa (Prime Minister) and Senapati (Commander-in-Chief).

6. Which person held the initial position of Peshwa within the Maratha Empire?

a) Baji Rao I
b) Madhav Rao I
c) Balaji Vishwanath
d) Nana Phadnavis

Answer: c) Balaji Vishwanath

Explanation: Balaji Vishwanath was the first Peshwa, appointed by Chhatrapati Shahu. He laid the foundation for Peshwa rule in the Maratha administration.

7. What does the term 'Chauth' refer to in the Maratha administration?

a) A military rank

b) A land revenue tax

c) A religious ceremony

d) A type of fortification

Answer: b) A land revenue tax

Explanation: 'Chauth' was a 25% tax levied on lands under nominal Mughal rule, serving as a significant revenue source for the Marathas.

8. Who was the Maratha leader renowned for his guerrilla warfare tactics against the Mughals?

a) Sambhaji

b) Baji Rao I

c) Shivaji Maharaj

d) Mahadaji Shinde

Answer: c) Shivaji Maharaj

9. Which Peshwa expanded the Maratha Empire to its zenith in the 18th century?

a) Balaji Vishwanath

b) Baji Rao I

c) Madhavrao I

d) Raghunath Rao

Answer: b) Baji Rao I

Explanation: Peshwa Baji Rao I significantly expanded the Maratha Empire between 1720 and 1740.

10. Which Maratha ruler signed the Treaty of Bassein (1802)?

a) Bajirao II
b) Shahu
c) Madhav Rao II
d) Raghuji Bhonsle

Answer: a) Bajirao II

Explanation: The Treaty of Bassein (1802) was signed between Bajirao II and the British, leading to the Second Anglo-Maratha War.