The empire ruled by Akbar the Great was the Mughal Empire. Akbar, who reigned from 1556 to 1605, is credited with consolidating and expanding the empire, making it one of the most powerful and culturally rich states in the Indian subcontinent. His policies promoted religious tolerance and cultural integration, fostering an environment where arts and architecture flourished. Akbar's administrative reforms and efforts to implement a centralized governance model laid the groundwork for the empire's prosperity and influence during and after his rule, significantly shaping Indian history.