The Cambridge History of India, Vol. III: Turks and Afghans v3.c20.96

v3.c20.96

The relations between the brothers exhibit a pleasing contrast to the almost invariable tale of envy, jealousy, and fratricidal strife furnished by the records of other Muslim dynasties. Ghiyās-ud-dīn commanded, until his death, the loyal assistance of his brother, and in return reposed in him a confidence which was never abused and permitted to him a freedom of action which few other eastern rulers have dared to tolerate in a near relation. Muhammad acquired territory and wealth which would have enabled him, had he been so minded, to overthrow his brother and usurp his throne, and was described on his coins as ‘the great and victorious Sultan,’ but the place of honour was always assigned to his brother’s name, which was distinguished by epithets denoting his superiority.