The 17th Century Mughals (1605-1707)

Context: The transition from the consolidated empire of Akbar to the peak of architectural glory and the eventual administrative overstretch.
Key Feature: The shift from liberal integration to defensive orthodoxy and the draining of the treasury in the Deccan wars.

1. Jahangir (1605-1627): The Transition

Administrative Innovation: Introduced the Du-aspa Sih-aspa system, allowing for the increase of military strength without altering the personal rank (Zat) of a Mansabdar.
The Nur Jahan Junta: Her influence was not just domestic; for nearly 15 years, she and her family (Itimad-ud-Daula and Asaf Khan) were the de-facto decision-makers of the empire.
Artistic Zenith: The peak of Mughal painting, characterized by extreme naturalism and the focus on individual portraits and nature studies.

Architectural Climax: Replaced red sandstone with white marble and introduced Pietra Dura (fine stone inlay).
Deccan Policy: Formally annexed Ahmednagar (1633) and forced Bijapur/Golconda into tributary treaties (1636).
Fiscal Stress: Despite the outward glory, the massive expenditure on construction and Deccan wars began to strain the agrarian economy.

The 'Deccan Ulcer': Spent the last 25 years of his life in the South, successfully annexing Bijapur (1686) and Golconda (1687), but failing to suppress the Maratha guerrilla resistance.
Religious Orthodoxy: Re-imposed Jizya (1679) and appointed Muhtasibs (Censors of Public Morals) to enforce Islamic law.
Rebellions: Faced series of ethnically and religiously driven revolts (Jats, Satnamis, Sikhs, and Rajputs) that weakened the central military core.

Jahangir's Music: While he was a connoisseur of painting, Aurangzeb was the one who banned court music, although he himself was an accomplished Veena player.
Maratha Treaty: The Treaty of Purandar (1665) was signed by Jai Singh on behalf of Aurangzeb, not directly by the Emperor.
Nur Jahan's Coins: She was the only Mughal Empress to have her name inscribed on imperial coins alongside the Emperor.