Empire 209. Akbar the Great
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Dec 5, 2024 Journey back to 1542, where a boy born in the desert rises to become Akbar the Great, a beacon of tolerance in a fragmented era. Learn how he ascended to the throne at just thirteen and swiftly navigated political complexities, making strategic alliances even with former adversaries. Discover his groundbreaking policies, like abolishing the Jizya tax, which fostered unity among diverse cultures. Dive into the story of how Akbar balanced ruthlessness with compassion while expanding a vast empire and leaving a legacy rich in pluralism and cultural synthesis.
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Akbar's Improbable Rise
- Akbar the Great's life reads like a fairy tale, born in 1542 to a fugitive king.
- His family lived like beggars, eating boiled horses in the desert, yet he became emperor at thirteen.
Akbar's Greatness Foretold
- Akbar's horoscope, surprisingly optimistic, predicted his future greatness.
- He built India's largest empire pre-British rule, impressing even Milton's England.
Akbar's Conciliatory Approach
- Akbar, unlike other powerful rulers, focused on conciliation after violent conquests.
- He entrusted his army to former enemies, the Rajputs, showcasing his unique approach.