Final answer:
Akbar the Great expanded the Mughal Empire through military conquests, strategic alliances, administrative reform, and by fostering a hybrid Indo-Islamic culture that included religious tolerance and cultural achievements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Akbar the Great was the Mughal Empire's true architect who significantly expanded and strengthened the empire during his rule from 1556-1605. He employed a combination of military prowess and diplomatic strategy to expand his territory. Akbar's expansion policy included the incorporation of local rulers who were allowed to retain control of their lands as long as they recognized his supremacy. This method of expansion through allegiances facilitated the empire's growth without the need for constant military action.
To enhance governance, Akbar revolutionized the bureaucratic system by organizing the empire into provinces, each managed by appointed officials such as governors and military commanders. These changes centralized authority while also giving a degree of autonomy to local administrators. The realm's restructuring included the appointment of mansabdars, and civil servants responsible for collecting taxes and providing military support. Professionalism and effort, rather than heritage, were the basis for promotions within the Mughal administration. Akbar's policies created a sense of loyalty among his officials and helped to secure the empire's expansion.
In his quest to create a hybrid Indo-Islamic culture, Akbar demonstrated religious tolerance and an interest in the beliefs of his subjects, fostering an environment rich in cultural achievements. He engaged with scholars and artists, which led to the flourishing of culture during his reign. Therefore, while military conquests were a component of Akbar's strategy for expanding the Mughal Empire, his use of administrative reform, strategic alliances, and cultural inclusion played equally significant roles in establishing a strong, unified, and expansive empire.