Final answer:
Akbar positively defined the Mughal Empire by incorporating Indians, implementing reforms, promoting religious tolerance, and patronizing the arts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Akbar, the greatest of the Mughal emperors, positively defined the Mughal Empire through his various accomplishments and actions. Firstly, Akbar actively sought to incorporate both Muslim and Hindu Indians into his kingdom, allowing local rulers to retain control of their lands as long as they submitted to him. He also established schools for both Muslims and Hindus, promoted religious toleration, and even held religious disputations where scholars from different faiths debated.
Akbar also implemented administrative and military reforms, dividing the empire into provinces and assigning governors with specific roles. He recruited cavalry for the Mughal army through the mansabdari system, where promotions were based on effort and loyalty.
In terms of cultural achievements, Akbar had a large library with books in multiple languages, patronized the arts, and had a keen interest in architecture. The Mughal golden age saw remarkable achievements in architecture and painting.