The Question of Landownership
- Bernier’s Travels in the Mughal Empire is marked by detailed observations, critical insights, and reflection.
- According to Bernier one of the fundamental differences between Mughal India and Europe was the lack of private property in land.
- He believed in the virtues of private property and saw crown ownership of land as harmful to both the state and its people.
- The empire owned all the land and distributed it among its nobles which had disastrous consequences for the economy and society.
Chapter 5 François Bernier| Class 12 History Notes
Francois Bernier was a Frenchman, a doctor, a political philosopher, and a historian. He came to the Mughal court in search of opportunities. He was in India for twelve years from 1656 to 1668. He was closely associated with the Mughal court as a physician to Prince Dara Shukoh, the eldest son of Shah Jahan.
Let us learn more about François Bernier in details!