Which ruler in Asian history is popularly called the "Napoleon of Iran" because of his military genius?

Introduction / Context:
This question checks your knowledge of important Asian rulers and their popular titles. The expression "Napoleon of Iran" is used by historians to describe a powerful Persian ruler whose campaigns and conquests resembled those of Napoleon Bonaparte in Europe.

Given Data / Assumptions:
• We are looking for a ruler from Iranian or Persian history. • The ruler is noted for wide-ranging military campaigns. • The title compares his achievements with Napoleon's in Europe.

Concept / Approach:
Nadir Shah (also written Nader Shah) ruled Iran in the eighteenth century and founded the Afsharid dynasty. He conducted successful campaigns across Persia, Central Asia and northern India, even invading Delhi. Because of his brilliant but ruthless military strategies and rapid conquests, some historians call him the "Napoleon of Iran" or "Napoleon of Persia".

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Note that the nickname must refer to an Iranian ruler. Step 2: From the options, identify who actually ruled Iran or Persia. Step 3: Recognise that Nadir Shah is the only major Iranian conqueror listed. Step 4: Recall the historical description of Nadir Shah as the "Napoleon of Iran" due to his military genius. Step 5: Select "Nadir Shah" as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard history references on Persian rulers mention that Nadir Shah's empire stretched from northern India to the Caucasus. His rapid victories and strategic brilliance earned him comparisons with Napoleon. Modern GK guides and exam keys also clearly link the title "Napoleon of Iran" with Nadir Shah, confirming that this option is correct.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option Akbar: A Mughal emperor of India, famous as "Akbar the Great", not as "Napoleon of Iran". Option Shah Jahan: Another Mughal emperor, remembered for building the Taj Mahal, not for this military nickname. Option Cyrus the Great: An ancient Persian founder of empire, but not usually compared to Napoleon with this specific phrase. Option Tamerlane: A Central Asian conqueror (Timur), but again, not called the "Napoleon of Iran" in standard GK books.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse various Persian and Central Asian conquerors such as Tamerlane and Nadir Shah. A simple memory aid is: Nadir Shah invaded Delhi in 1739 and is described as the "Napoleon of Iran" or "Napoleon of Persia" because of his eighteenth-century conquests. Remembering this association helps avoid last-minute confusion in exams.

Final Answer:
Therefore, the ruler popularly known as the "Napoleon of Iran" is Nadir Shah.