The Vijayanagara king who employed skilled archers of the Turkish clan and raised the fighting capacity of his bowmen was?
VerifiedAnswer: Devaraya I
Explanation:
Devaraya I was a remarkable ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire who reigned from 1406 to 1422 CE. He belonged to the Sangama dynasty and was known for his military innovations and strategic thinking. One of his most significant contributions to the empire's military strength was his decision to employ skilled Turkish archers in his army.
During the medieval period, Turkish archers were renowned throughout the world for their exceptional archery skills and military expertise. These archers had mastered advanced techniques of mounted archery and were particularly effective in battlefield warfare. Recognizing their superior abilities, Devaraya I made the strategic decision to recruit these skilled warriors into his army, despite the fact that they came from a different cultural and religious background.
This decision was part of Devaraya I's broader military reforms aimed at strengthening the Vijayanagara army. The empire was constantly engaged in conflicts with neighboring kingdoms, particularly the Bahmani Sultanate in the north. The king understood that to maintain the empire's dominance and protect its territories, he needed to modernize his military forces and adopt the best practices available at that time.
The employment of Turkish archers significantly enhanced the fighting capacity of the Vijayanagara army's bowmen. These skilled warriors brought with them advanced archery techniques, better training methods, and superior tactical knowledge. They helped train the existing archers in the army and introduced new combat strategies that proved highly effective in subsequent battles.
Devaraya I's military innovations extended beyond just hiring foreign archers. He also focused on improving the overall organization of his army, strengthening fortifications, and developing better military equipment. His reign marked a period of military modernization that helped the Vijayanagara Empire maintain its strength and territorial integrity for many years to come.
The success of this strategy can be seen in the military achievements during and after Devaraya I's reign. The improved archery units played a crucial role in various military campaigns and helped the empire defend against invasions from northern sultanates. This pragmatic approach to military recruitment, where merit and skill were prioritized over religious or cultural considerations, demonstrates Devaraya I's wisdom as a ruler and his commitment to protecting his empire through whatever means necessary.
