Mahmud of Ghazni, also known as Mahmud Ghaznavi, was a prominent ruler of the Ghaznavid Empire, reigning from 998 to 1030 CE. He was a military leader who expanded his empire through numerous invasions, particularly in the Indian subcontinent, and is known for his wealth and patronage of the arts. Early Life and Rise to Power: Mahmud was born in 971 CE in Ghazni, a city in present-day Afghanistan. He was the son of Sabuktigin, a Turkish slave commander who founded the Ghaznavid dynasty. Mahmud initially assisted his father in military campaigns before seizing power in 997 CE by overthrowing his younger brother, Ismail, who had been nominated as heir. Military Campaigns and Conquests: Mahmud is renowned for his 17 invasions of India, beginning around 1000 CE. He primarily targeted wealthy cities and temples, including the famous Somnath temple in Gujarat in 1025 CE, aiming to plunder their riches. While he didn't establish permanent rule in most of India, his conquests expanded the Ghaznavid Empire significantly, incorporating parts of present-day Afghanistan, eastern Iran, and the northwestern Indian subcontinent. Legacy and Impact: Mahmud's military prowess and strategic thinking were highly regarded. He transformed the small state of Ghazni into a vast and wealthy empire. Despite his focus on plunder, Mahmud also contributed to the cultural and intellectual life of his empire. He founded a university, a library, and a museum in Ghazni, along with a grand mosque. His reign also facilitated the exchange of trade and ideas between the Indian subcontinent and the Muslim world. However, his invasions also led to the destruction of temples and loss of life, and his actions are viewed differently by various historical perspectives.