In 1761, the Maratha forces came into conflict with the forces of Ahmad Shah Abdali. In the context of this battle consider the following statements and identify the correct one.
This battle is known as the second battle of Panipat, the first one being between Hemu and Akbar.
Incorrect AnswerThe battle was a result of conflict between the Marathas and Afghan rulers about control over trade routes to central Asia.
Incorrect AnswerDespite aligning forces with Awadh rulers, Rohillas and Sikhs, the Marathas lost to a well trained Afghan army.
Incorrect AnswerDue to the defeat of Marathas, this battle paved way for consolidation of British power in Bengal and South India.
Correct AnswerExplanation:
Fourth option is correct. The Third Battle of Panipat took place on 14 January 1761 at Panipat, between a northern expeditionary force of the Maratha Empire and invading forces of the King of Afghanistan, Ahmad Shah Abdali, supported by two Indian allies—the Rohilla Afghans of the Doab, and Shuja-ud-Daula, the Nawab of Awadh.
Marathas lost this war.
According to J.N. Sarkar, Marathas were badly defeated in the battle of Panipat. The good leaders of Marathas were killed and the weak leaders like Raghunathrao came into politics.
By this, the power and the prestige of peshwas were lost and unity of Marathas was broken. Marathas took time; to be normal and taking advantage of this opportunity the English took Bengal and Mysore from Haider Ali.
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By: Abhipedia