Bajirao I, the formidable Maratha Peshwa, died on April 28, 1740, due to a viral fever. His untimely demise brought an end to an extraordinary military career that saw the Maratha Empire expand significantly across India.
The End of an Era
Bajirao's death at a relatively young age was a significant event, concluding a period of intense military campaigning and strategic expansion for the Marathas. He was known for his innovative military tactics and swift movements, which earned him numerous victories against various powers.
A Legacy of Conquests
Throughout his tenure as Peshwa, Bajirao engaged in and conquered several pivotal military battles, establishing himself as one of the most successful military leaders in Indian history. His conquests included:
- The Nizam: This was notably his first major military conquest, marking the beginning of his illustrious career.
- Malwa
- Bundelkhand
- Gujarat
- Siddis
- Rajputana
- The Portuguese Battle of Bhopal: This was likely one of his final significant military engagements.
- March to Delhi
His relentless campaigns and strategic genius played a crucial role in shaping the geopolitical landscape of 18th-century India. His death from natural causes, specifically a viral fever, underscored the harsh realities of life and health challenges even for powerful figures of that era.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of Death | April 28, 1740 |
| Cause of Death | Viral fever |
| Military Career | Conquered numerous battles, expanding Maratha Empire |
