Class 6 Marathas Under Peshwas

Introduction :

           * The "Peshwa" was an important post created by Shivaji and one among the eight ministers known as "Asta Pradhan"
           * The first Peshwa was "Trimbakji Pingle".
           * And after 5 peshwas came the Seventh Peshwa 'Balaji Vishwanath Rao', who supported Prince Shahu against Tara bai. To check continuity, Click shahu.
           * After Balaji Vishwanath, the Post of Peshwas/ Peshwaship became hereditary.

Balji Vishwanath Rao (1713-1720)

          * He was famously known as "Organiser of the Army".

Baji Rao I (1720-1740)

          * In 1739, Marathas captured Salsetti and Bassein from Portuguese.
          * He frequently defeated the Hyderabad Nawab Nizam-ul-mulk Asaf Shah.

Balaji Baji Rao II (1740-1761)
         * His policy was "Cuttack - Attock".
         * So, during the fifth invasion of Afghan ruler Ahmad shah Abdali, he opposed him. And III Panipat war took place between the Marathas and Afghans in 1761.
        * Marathas force was commanded by Sadasiva Rao.
        * In this bloody battle, The Marathas force was completely crushed.

The Four Anglo Maratha Wars have been discussed in the topic British Expansion in India.

Posted in: Class 6