Option b is the correct answer. Chronological Order: Mahmud Ghaznavi (971-1030): Mahmud of Ghazni, the first Sultan of the Ghaznavid Empire (998-1030), established a Persianized state extending from Iran to the Indian subcontinent. His reign enriched Ghazni culturally and commercially, with Lahore as a central hub. Ascending the throne at 27, he held the title Sultan and conducted multiple invasions in medieval India between the 11th and 12th centuries, using the spoils to develop his capital. Muhammad Ghori (1144 - 1206): Muhammad Ghori, ruling from 1173 to 1206, was a Ghurid ruler who expanded Islamic rule in South Asia. Conquering regions like Punjab, he secured the Khyber Pass, enabling northern India invasions. His death in 1206 led to the rise of the Delhi Sultanate under Qutbuddin Aibak. Genghis Khan (1162 -1227): Genghis Khan, who reigned from 1206 to 1227, was the founder of the Mongol Empire. He united Mongol tribes and initiated military campaigns that conquered significant parts of China and Central Asia. He vassalized Western Xia in 1211, invaded the Jin dynasty, annexed Qara Khitai, and by 1227, had devastated the Khwarazmian Empire. Taimur (1325 - 1405): Taimur, or Tamerlane, who reigned from 1370 to 1405, was a Turco-Mongol conqueror who founded the Timurid Empire across Afghanistan, Iran, and Central Asia. An accomplished military leader, he defeated powerful entities including the Ottoman Empire, creating a vast empire and influencing history until the rise of gunpowder empires.