“The policies of Aurangzeb began the decline of the Mughal Empire.” Discuss with reference to the period up to 1712.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that Aurangzeb’s policies contributed to the decline of the Empire. Candidates may refer to other factors and discuss the importance of Aurangzeb’s policies in the wider context of the decline of the Mughal Empire. While other relevant factors may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement, but their opinions or conclusions will be supported by appropriate evidence. Aurangzeb’s policies discussed may include his policies of religious persecution against the Hindus and the Shias. Candidates may also discuss the prolonged war against the Marathas which ruined the finances of the state and the impact of the Deccan Policy. Other factors discussed may include the unmanageable size of the empire and the impact of the arrival of the British/French in India.