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What were the Battles of Panipat?

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The Battles of Panipat were three major conflicts fought in 1526, 1556, and 1761 at Panipat, about 50 miles (80 km) north of Delhi. Although the battles were unrelated, each significantly influenced Indian history by establishing Mughal rule, restoring Mughal authority, or weakening Maratha power. The battles were as follows:

  • First Battle of Panipat (1526): fought between the Mughal ruler Babur and Ibrahim Lodi, the last ruler of the Lodi dynasty. Babur won, laying the foundation for Mughal rule in India.
  • Second Battle of Panipat (1556): fought between the Mughal ruler Akbar and the Hindu minister Hemu. Akbar won, restoring Mughal rule in northern India.
  • Third Battle of Panipat (1761): fought between the Afghan Durrani chief Ahmad Shah Durrani and Sadashiv Rao Bhau of the Maratha army. Ahmad Shah Durrani won, and Maratha power began to decline.