Slave Dynasty (1206-1290)

The Slave Dynasty was founded by Qutbuddin Aibak, a slave and later a confidant of Muhammad Ghori. The Slave Dynasty is also known by the names Mamluk, Ilbari, Yamini, and Ghulam. He was the first ruler of the Slave Dynasty with the title of 'Sultan' from 1206 to 1210 and is known as 'Lakbhaksh' (donor of lakhs). Although Muhammad Ghori laid the foundation of Muslim rule in India, the Slave Dynasty is considered to be the first Muslim dynasty in India. The construction of the famous Qutub Minar in Delhi was started by Qutbuddin Aibak. Its construction was completed during the reign of another king of the Slave Dynasty, Iltutmish. The most capable ruler of this dynasty was Balban. Balban, who adopted the policy of 'blood and iron', ruthlessly crushed his enemies. Kaikubad was the last ruler of the slave dynasty. Jalaluddin Khilji founded the Khilji dynasty by killing Balban's successor, Kaikubad.