Which of the following best reflects Akbar the Great’s eventual change in philosophy concerning empire building? Rule by the sword was the best way to control power.
Benevolent reform was the best way to maintain power.
Monoethnic nationalism was the best way to usurp power.
Economic isolation was the best way to consolidate power.

I believe the answer is b

Explanation:

In the source it mentions how he used to use violence and fear to control, but started to use a different approach

in 550 b.c.e. cyrus the great, the leader of the persians, conquered the medes and united the iranian people under one ruler for the first time. cyrus became the first king of the persian empire and went on to establish one of the largest empires in world.

a big one is

to appoint and regulate officers of the land and naval forces,

which caused much controversy ending the articles