Life and Conditions of the People of Hindustan (1200–1550 A.D.) c5.s4.t2.1

c5.s4.t2.1

1. *Its character.*—Immediately below the monarch came his nobles. They usually supported him in power, but at times usurped his functions, and if a ruling dynasty grew weak and effete they stepped into its shoes, and founded a new ruling dynasty of their own. Even if a noble was deposed or otherwise robbed of his position and power, the traditions of former dignity and social honour were unfailingly handed on to his descendants; and with the approbation of the people, who tenaciously adhered to the hereditary principle, restoration to former power was only a question of time and opportunity.