Jahangir

Jahangir was the fourth Mughal emperor, counted amongst the greatest Indian Emperors. He ruled over India for a period of 22 years from 1605 to 1627, and was well known for his love for fine arts. As the eldest surviving son of the Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great, he was trained for succession from a young age. He was tutored by the best teachers his father could find and was given expert training in civil and military administration. With time he grew impatient for succession and revolted against his father in 1599 but was unsuccessful. The relations between Akbar and Jahangir became strained as a result of this revolt, and some historians suggest that Jahangir ultimately poisoned his father to death. He ascended to the throne shortly afterwards. As emperor, he proved to be an excellent administrator and his reign was marked by political stability and economic growth. He had a profound interest in fine arts and patronized the European and Persian arts, and played a major role in the development of Mughal arts. Having inherited a rich legacy from his father, he continued with several of Akbar’s policies. Jahangir was also notorious for his vices. He was addicted to alcohol, opium, and women, and was infamous for the acts of brutality he inflicted upon the Sikhs.