Baji Rao II
Early Life and Ascension to Power
Baji Rao II was born on January 10, 1775, in Pune, into the prominent Bhat family, which held the hereditary position of Peshwa in the Maratha Empire. He was the son of Raghunath Rao, also known as Raghoba, and Anandibai. His early life was marked by political turmoil due to his father's controversial role in the Maratha politics, which included the infamous Treaty of Surat. This treaty, signed in 1775, was an agreement with the British East India Company, which led to the First Anglo-Maratha War.
Baji Rao II's childhood was spent under the shadow of his father's political failures and the subsequent loss of prestige for his family. After the death of his father, Baji Rao II was largely kept away from the central political scene by the ruling Peshwa, Madhav Rao II. However, the untimely death of Madhav Rao II in 1796 created a power vacuum, and Baji Rao II was appointed as the Peshwa with the support of the influential minister, Nana Fadnavis.
Reign as Peshwa
Baji Rao II's reign as Peshwa was fraught with challenges. Unlike his predecessors, he lacked military acumen and political sagacity, which were crucial for maintaining the Maratha Confederacy's dominance. His tenure was characterized by internal strife and external threats, particularly from the British.
Internal Conflicts
The Maratha Empire during Baji Rao II's time was a confederation of semi-autonomous states, each ruled by powerful chieftains like the Scindia, Holkar, and Gaekwad families. Baji Rao II's authority was often challenged by these chieftains, leading to frequent conflicts. His strained relationship with Yashwantrao Holkar, the ruler of Indore, culminated in the Battle of Poona in 1802, where Holkar defeated Baji Rao II's forces, forcing him to flee.
Treaty of Bassein
In a bid to regain his position and authority, Baji Rao II signed the Treaty of Bassein (1802), a pivotal agreement with the British East India Company. This treaty effectively made the Peshwa a subsidiary ally of the British, providing them with significant influence over Maratha affairs. The treaty was controversial and led to the Second Anglo-Maratha War, as other Maratha chieftains viewed it as a betrayal of their sovereignty.
The Second Anglo-Maratha War
The Second Anglo-Maratha War (1803-1805) was a direct consequence of the Treaty of Bassein. The Maratha chieftains, including the Scindia and Bhonsle families, opposed the treaty and engaged in a series of battles against the British forces. Despite initial successes, the Marathas were ultimately defeated due to superior British military tactics and resources.
Consequences of the War
The defeat in the Second Anglo-Maratha War significantly weakened the Maratha Confederacy. The British imposed stringent terms on the Marathas, further eroding their autonomy. Baji Rao II's position was reduced to that of a puppet ruler under British control, with limited power and influence.
The Third Anglo-Maratha War and Abdication
The Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818) marked the final chapter in the decline of the Maratha Empire. Baji Rao II, disillusioned by his lack of power, attempted to regain independence by rallying support from various Maratha factions. However, the British, under the leadership of Governor-General Hastings, launched a decisive campaign against the Marathas.
The End of Maratha Sovereignty
The British forces swiftly defeated the Maratha armies, and Baji Rao II was forced to surrender. On June 3, 1818, he signed the Treaty of Poona, formally abdicating his position as Peshwa. This treaty marked the end of the Maratha Empire and the beginning of British paramountcy in India.
Later Life and Legacy
After his abdication, Baji Rao II was granted a pension and allowed to live in Bithoor, near Kanpur. He spent the remainder of his life in relative obscurity, far removed from the political intrigues of his earlier years. He died on January 28, 1851.
Baji Rao II's legacy is a complex one. His reign is often criticized for the decline of the Maratha Empire and the rise of British dominance in India. However, it also highlights the challenges faced by Indian rulers in navigating the rapidly changing political landscape of the early 19th century.