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What was life like for commoners under Mughal rule?

Candace Scantlebury

As a user of social media, I am excited to share my findings about what life was like for commoners under the Mughal rule. The Mughal Empire, which spanned from 1526 to 1857, was a fascinating time in India's history, where the rulers wielded tremendous power and wealth while the commoners struggled to make ends meet.

Life for commoners was incredibly challenging in the Mughal Empire. They were often subjected to cruel taxes and forced labor, which meant they had very little to live on. Commoners had few rights and were generally seen as inferior to those in positions of power. This lack of agency made it overwhelmingly challenging for them to better their lives or have any real impact on the world around them.

One of the most significant benefits of the Mughal Empire for commoners was the improvement in infrastructure, particularly in the form of new roads and trade routes. This allowed for the development of trade, which brought new goods and opportunities to commoners, but the benefits were always unequally distributed. The wealthy always benefited the most from these changes, while the common people didn't see much improvement in their lives.

To make matters worse, many commoners during the Mughal Empire were also subject to physical abuse and cruelty at the hands of their employers. They were forced to work in inhumane conditions, with little respect shown for their wellbeing or long-term health. This led to many people working themselves to the bone, with little to show for it at the end of the day.

Despite the violence and inequality of life under the Mughal rule, some commoners managed to thrive. Many rural communities found ways to come together and support each other in their struggles. They created support systems to share knowledge, resources, and tools, which helped them survive and, in some cases, even prosper.

In conclusion, life under the Mughal Empire was unforgiving for commoners. The lack of rights and opportunities made it difficult for them to make any real progress in their lives. However, through hard work and determination, many managed to find ways to survive and even prosper throughout this difficult period in history. Their stories are a testament to the human spirit's resilience, even in the toughest of times.