The Maratha Empire

2026-01-10

Founded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1674, the Maratha Empire ended Mughal dominance and became the paramount power in India in the 18th century. They were masters of guerrilla warfare (Ganimi Kava).

Expansion

Under the Peshwas (Prime Ministers), the empire expanded from Attock (modern Pakistan) to Thanjavur.

Timeline

  • 1674: Coronation of Shivaji Maharaj.
  • 1680: Death of Shivaji.
  • 1720-1740: Peshwa Baji Rao I expands Maratha power.
  • 1761: Third Battle of Panipat; checked Maratha expansion.
  • 1818: Third Anglo-Maratha War; end of the empire.