American History Tellers History Daily: The Battle of Karnal
Feb 24, 2025
Discover the dramatic rise of Nadir Shah, from a young wolf hunter to a powerful Persian leader. The podcast delves into his strategic military conquests and how he turned the tide against the Mughal Empire. The Battle of Karnal stands out as a pivotal moment, leading to the weakening of Mughal influence and paving the way for colonial powers to seize control in India. Explore how one man's ambition shaped the course of history in the subcontinent.
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Nadir Shah's Early Life
- Nadir Shah, born Nadir Kohli, honed his leadership skills from a young age, starting as a shepherd boy who killed a wolf on his 10th birthday.
- He later led a band of thieves, transforming them into a formidable army and becoming a powerful warlord.
Strategic Alliance
- Nadir Shah's strategic alliance with Tahmasp, despite lacking personal loyalty, highlights his pragmatism and ambition.
- He recognized the opportunity to gain power within a new regime by helping Tahmasp regain the throne.
Military Modernization
- Nadir Shah prioritized practicality over tradition by embracing firearms and artillery, unlike many who favored swords.
- This forward-thinking approach and disciplined training led to victory against the Afghan rebels.