History Notes Chapter 11 Marathas – The Protectors of the Nation Class 7 Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – History Class 7
1. Introduction

• After the death of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the Peshwas became more powerful.
• The Marathas expanded their rule beyond Maharashtra and became the protectors of the Mughal Empire.
• However, they faced many challenges from the Afghans, Rohillas, and other Indian rulers.

2. The Maratha Expansion in the North

• Under Nanasaheb Peshwa, the Marathas extended their rule up to Attock (now in Pakistan).
• Raghunathrao and Malharrao Holkar captured Delhi and Punjab in 1758 CE.
• The Marathas hoisted their flag at Attock, showing their control over North India.

3. The Afghan Invasion

• Ahmadshah Abdali, the ruler of Afghanistan, attacked India several times.
• The Mughals were weak, so the Marathas defended India against him.
• The Marathas fought against Abdali’s army in many battles.

4. The Battle of Panipat (1761 CE)

1. Ahmadshah Abdali joined forces with Najibkhan Rohilla and Shuja-ud-Daula.

2. The Marathas, led by Sadashivrao Bhau, marched towards Delhi to stop them.

3. Both armies fought a major battle at Panipat on 14 January 1761.

Results of the battle:

• The Marathas were defeated due to lack of food and strong allies.
• Many Maratha leaders like Sadashivrao Bhau and Vishwasrao died.
• The Maratha power was weakened for some time, but they later regained strength.

5. The Marathas Rebuild Their Power

• After Nanasaheb Peshwa died, his son Madhavrao Peshwa became the leader.
• He worked hard to restore Maratha power.
• He defeated the Nizam at Rakshasbhuvan (1763 CE).
• The Marathas helped the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam return to the Delhi throne.

6. The Role of the Jats and Rohillas

• The Jats of Mathura, led by Surajmal Jat, fought against the Mughals and Rohillas.
• The Rohillas were Afghan soldiers who settled near the Himalayas and attacked North India.
• The Marathas had to fight both these groups to maintain control.

7. The Battle of Rakshasbhuvan (1763 CE)

• Madhavrao Peshwa fought against the Nizam of Hyderabad at Rakshasbhuvan.
• The Nizam was defeated, and the Marathas gained more power in the Deccan region.

8. Madhavrao Peshwa’s Achievements

• He defeated the Rohillas in North India.
• He controlled Mughal affairs in Delhi and helped Shah Alam regain his throne.
• He strengthened Maratha rule after the loss in Panipat.
• Unfortunately, he died in 1772 CE, which affected Maratha leadership.

9. The Death of Tipu Sultan (1799 CE)

• Tipu Sultan of Mysore was a powerful ruler who fought against the British.
• The British and Marathas joined forces to defeat him.
• Tipu Sultan died in 1799, which ended his rule in Mysore.