Warfare, Technology and Military Organization

South India during 17th and 18th centuries, witnessed political instability owing to the decline of mighty Vijayanagar empire. As a result, the Nayakas or the provincial governors asserted independence and frequent conflicts ensued in the region. The demand for numerous weapons and other war apparatus increased as warfare became the order of the day. Similarly, 18th century is also a debatable area which has attracted the attention of various scholars as to whether it is a Dark Age or not. The present book tries to say that though 18th century is regarded as Dark Age, it is only in political sphere and not as a whole as perceived. Economically, there was considerable amount of trading activity going on, especially in the sphere of military weapons and other related goods to cater the needs of numerous soldiers fighting for their kings. Along with this, the widespread European influence in south India facilitated the growth of various trading centres for their own benefit as well as to cater the military needs of Indian rulers in course of time. Hence it cannot be said that there was economic decline during this period which, alters the notion of 18th century as Dark Age.