Mahmud of Ghazni (Nov. 2, 971–April 30, 1030), the first ruler in history to assume the title of “sultan,” founded the Ghaznavid Empire. His title signified that the Muslim Caliph remained the religious leader of the empire despite being the political leader of a vast swath of land, encompassing much of what is now Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and northern India.
Fast Facts: Mahmud of Ghazni
- Known For: First sultan in history
- Also Known As: Yamin ad-Dawlah Abdul-Qasim Mahmud ibn Sabuktegin
- Born: Nov. 2, 971 in Ghazna, Zabulistan, Samanid Empire
- Parents: Abu Mansur Sabuktigin, Mahmud-i Zavuli
- Died: April 30, 1030 in Ghazna
- Honor: Pakistan named its short-range ballistic missile the Ghaznavi Missile in his honor.
- Spouse: Kausari Jahan
- Children: Mohammad and Ma’sud (twins)
