History of Aurangzib, Based on Original Sources v4.c59.s2.8

v4.c59.s2.8

Thus a remarkable community of language, creed and life was attained in Maharashtra in the 17th century, even before political unity was conferred by Shivaji. What little was wanting to the solidarity of the people was supplied by his creation of a national State, the long struggle with the invader from Delhi, and the imperial expansion of the race in the 18th century under the Peshwas. Thus in the end a collection of castes and tribes was fused into a nation by their political history.