Final answer:
The military campaigns led by Mughal rulers and the religious tolerance and administrative reforms of Akbar the Great played major roles in the Mughal Empire's rise to power in the 16th century.
Step-by-step explanation:
The factor that played a major role in the Mughal Empire's rise to power in the 16th century was the military campaigns led by its rulers. Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, used gunpowder technology and a rapidly moving cavalry to defeat his enemies. This combination of firepower and mobility gave the Mughals a significant advantage in battle and allowed them to expand their territory.
Another important factor was the religious tolerance and administrative reforms introduced by Akbar the Great, Babur's grandson. Akbar's policies of religious inclusivity and his efforts to streamline the tax and administrative systems helped to consolidate Mughal rule and gain the loyalty of diverse religious and ethnic groups within the empire.
The Mughal Empire's military strength and robust administration, along with their ability to adapt to and embrace local cultures and traditions, ultimately contributed to their rise and success in the 16th century.