Final answer:
The Mughal Empire was established by Babur in 1526. He was a descendant of both Timur and Genghis Khan and used advanced battle tactics to defeat the Delhi Sultanate. Akbar the Great further expanded and solidified the empire, promoting religious tolerance and cultural amalgamation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Mughal Empire was established by Babur in 1526. An exceptional leader of Central Asian descent, Babur was the first ruler of the Mughal Empire, whose lineage traced back to both Timur and Genghis Khan. He managed to conquer the city of Kabul in Afghanistan and later defeated the Delhi Sultanate using advanced battle tactics, including the strategic use of gunpowder technology, which was significant for the success of his military campaigns. Babur's establishment of the Mughal Empire laid the foundation for a significant period in South Asian history, characterized by architectural, cultural, and administrative advancements.
However, it was Akbar the Great, Babur's grandson, who is credited with truly architecting the Mughal state, promoting religious tolerance, significant administrative and military reforms, and striving to create a hybrid Indo-Islamic culture. Akbar's reign highlighted the empire's strength and diversity, exemplifying the blending of different traditions and belief systems.