Who founded the city of Agra?
Understanding the Founding of the City of Agra
The city of Agra holds significant historical importance in India, particularly known for architectural marvels like the Taj Mahal. Understanding who founded this city is key to grasping a part of its early history.
Examining the Founder of Agra
The question asks who founded the city of Agra. Let's look at the options provided:
- Babur
- Akbar
- Raja Bhoj
- Sikandar Lodī
Historical records indicate that the city of Agra was established or re-established as a major city by a ruler from the Delhi Sultanate period.
Sikandar Lodī and the Founding of Agra
Historical accounts credit Sikandar Lodī, the second ruler of the Lodī dynasty, with founding the modern city of Agra. He shifted his capital from Delhi to Agra in 1506 after founding the city in 1504. This move was strategically important for controlling the area around Bateshwar, which was under rebellious chiefs.
Sikandar Lodī built a fort in Agra, known as Badalgarh, on the site of the present-day Agra Fort. Although this fort was later rebuilt by the Mughals, its original foundation is attributed to Sikandar Lodī.
Analyzing Other Options
- Babur: Babur was the founder of the Mughal Empire. He captured Agra from the Lodīs in 1526 after the Battle of Panipat and made it his capital, but he did not found the city itself.
- Akbar: Akbar, Babur's grandson, was another major Mughal emperor who significantly developed Agra, building the current Agra Fort and making it a grand capital. However, the city existed before his time.
- Raja Bhoj: Raja Bhoj was a powerful king of the Paramara dynasty in central India, ruling much earlier (11th century). He is associated with places like Dhara and Bhojpur, not Agra.
Based on historical evidence, Sikandar Lodī is recognized as the founder of the city of Agra in 1504.
Conclusion on Agra's Founder
The ruler who founded the city of Agra was Sikandar Lodī.
Revision Table: Key Figures Associated with Agra
| Figure | Association with Agra | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Sikandar Lodī | Founded the modern city (1504) and made it capital (1506). | Lodī Dynasty (Delhi Sultanate) |
| Babur | Captured Agra and made it Mughal capital. | Mughal Empire (early 16th century) |
| Akbar | Developed Agra significantly, built Agra Fort. | Mughal Empire (16th century) |
| Shah Jahan | Built the Taj Mahal in Agra. | Mughal Empire (17th century) |
Additional Information on the Lodī Dynasty and Agra
The Lodī dynasty was an Afghan dynasty that ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1451 to 1526. Sikandar Lodī (reigned 1489–1517) was one of its most capable rulers. By shifting the capital to Agra, he aimed to better administer his territories, especially controlling the turbulent region around Etawah and strengthening his position against the Rajput states.
Agra remained an important city under his successor, Ibrahim Lodī, until it fell to Babur in 1526, marking the end of the Delhi Sultanate and the beginning of the Mughal Empire in India. The strategic importance recognized by Sikandar Lodī ensured Agra's continued prominence under the Mughals.
Important Questions from Delhi Sultanate
During the reign of Sultan Iltutmish, which powerful Mongol leader's forces, in pursuit of Khwarezmian Prince Jalal-ud-din Mangabarni, advanced to the northwestern borders of the Delhi Sultanate, creating a grave geopolitical threat?
Consider the following statements :
1. It was during the reign of Iltutmish that Chengiz Khan reached the Indus in pursuit of the fugitive Khwarezm prince.
2. It was during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughluq that Taimur occupied Multan and crossed the Indus.
3. It was during the reign of Deva Raya II of Vijayanagara Empire that Vasco Da gama reached the Coast of Kerala.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- Which of the following Sultans died while playing Polo or Chaugan?
In which of the following years did Razia become the Sultan of Delhi?
Captain Hawkins and Sir Thomas Roe visited the court of ______.
