What did the British historians in the colonial period think about India of the medieval?

British historians during the colonial period often described medieval India as a time of decay, backwardness, and decline compared to European standards. They used this view to justify colonial rule.

Colonial historians divided Indian history into three phases: Hindu period, Muslim period, and British period. They saw the medieval period, ruled largely by Muslim dynasties, as one of political instability and cultural stagnation.

Views of British Historians

• Medieval India was portrayed as chaotic and unorganized.
• They claimed India lacked unity and modern institutions.
• They argued that India needed British rule to bring progress.

This biased interpretation ignored India’s achievements in art, architecture, science, and literature during the medieval era. Historians today reject such one-sided views and highlight the rich culture of medieval India.