Q. Who among the following Englishmen was well versed in the Turkish language, received a Mansab of 400 and the title of ‘English Khan’ or Firangi Khan?
(a) Fitch
(b) Mildenhall
(c) Hawkins
(d) Sir Thomas Roe
Ans: (c) Hawkins
Explanation: The correct answer is (c) Hawkins.
Sir Thomas Hawkins, an Englishman, was well versed in the Turkish language and received a Mansab (rank) of 400 and the title of ‘English Khan’ or ‘Firangi Khan.’
Sir Thomas Hawkins was an English naval commander and diplomat who served during the reign of Emperor Jahangir in the Mughal Empire. He was sent as an ambassador by the English East India Company to establish trade relations with the Mughal Empire.
During his time in the Mughal court, Hawkins became proficient in the Turkish language and gained favor with Emperor Jahangir. As a recognition of his services, he was bestowed with the rank of Mansabdar, which indicated his position as a military commander with a Mansab (official rank) of 400. Additionally, he was given the title of ‘English Khan’ or ‘Firangi Khan.’
These honors and titles signified the respect and high regard that the Mughal Empire bestowed upon Hawkins for his diplomatic efforts and language skills.
Therefore, it was Sir Thomas Hawkins who received a Mansab of 400 and the title of ‘English Khan’ or ‘Firangi Khan’ due to his proficiency in the Turkish language and his services as an ambassador in the Mughal court.
