India in the sixteenth century presents a…

India in the sixteenth century presents a fragmented picture of rulers, both Muslim and Hindu, who lack concern for their subjects and who fail to create a common body of laws or institutions.

Outside developments also play a role in shaping events.

The circumnavigation of Africa by the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1498 allows Europeans to challenge Arab control of the trading routes between Europe and Asia.

In Central Asia and Afghanistan, shifts in power push Babur of Ferghana (in present-day Uzbekistan) southward, first to Kabul and then to India.

The dynasty he founds will endure for more than three centuries.