Final answer:
The correct answer is option A. Mughal zamindar tax collection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to various historical tax-collection systems used by empires to generate revenue, which in turn bolstered their state power and expansion efforts. The Mughal Empire's zamindar system, the Ottoman Empire's tax farming, the Mexica tribute lists, and the Ming Dynasty's practice of collecting taxes in hard currency are examples of fiscal strategies implemented across different eras and regions.
The Mughal Empire surveyed land and used local mansabdars for tax collection. The Ottomans developed an efficient bureaucracy to support their army through tax farming. The Ming Dynasty, on the other hand, faced financial shortages due to limitations on foreign trade and resorted to various measures, such as assigning tax collection to wealthier peasants and relying on hard currency, to mitigate financial crises.
For all historical empires, taxation was crucial for maintaining large standing armies and conducting public affairs, which often necessitated innovative solutions in the face of economic challenges.