Solution By Steps

Step 1: Understand the Historical Context

The Ottoman Empire was a major Islamic empire that controlled much of Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa from the late 13th century until the early 20th century.

The Mughal Empire was a significant Islamic empire in the Indian subcontinent from the early 16th century to the mid-19th century.

Step 2: Analyze Each Option

Option A: Absorbed religious influences from other cultures.

Both empires were known for their cultural and religious tolerance to some extent. The Ottomans allowed various religious communities to practice their faiths under the millet system. The Mughals, especially under Akbar, promoted a policy of religious tolerance and syncretism.

Option B: Forced non-Muslims to convert to Islam.

While there were instances of forced conversions, both empires generally allowed religious diversity and did not systematically force conversions.

Option C: Offered high positions to Hindus and Sikhs.

The Mughals, particularly Akbar, did offer high positions to Hindus. However, the Ottomans did not have significant Hindu or Sikh populations to offer such positions.

Option D: Ruled their territories until the early 1900s.

The Ottoman Empire lasted until the early 20th century, but the Mughal Empire declined significantly by the mid-19th century.

Step 3: Determine the Most Accurate Option

Considering the historical context and the analysis of each option, the most accurate statement that applies to both empires is that they absorbed religious influences from other cultures.

Final Answer

Option A: Absorbed religious influences from other cultures.