The correct answer is: A. Her gender.
Raziya Sultan was the only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. She was a capable and intelligent ruler, but she faced many challenges because of her gender. The Muslim world at the time was very patriarchal, and many people did not believe that a woman could be a good ruler. Raziya also faced opposition from her own family, who did not want her to rule. In the end, Raziya was overthrown and killed by her own generals.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option B: Her intention to be the ruler not only in name but also in fact. Raziya was a strong and independent ruler who wanted to be in control of her own destiny. She refused to be a puppet ruler, and she made many decisions that were unpopular with her advisors. However, this does not explain why she was overthrown and killed. Many other rulers have been unpopular with their advisors and have still managed to stay in power.
- Option C: Her unpopularity with the people of Delhi. Raziya was not popular with the people of Delhi because she was a woman. The people of Delhi were used to being ruled by men, and they did not trust a woman to be their ruler. However, this does not explain why she was overthrown and killed. Many other rulers have been unpopular with the people and have still managed to stay in power.
- Option D: Her incompetence. Raziya was a capable and intelligent ruler. She was well-educated and had a good understanding of politics and government. She also had a strong military and was able to defeat her enemies. However, she was not able to overcome the challenges that she faced because of her gender.
In conclusion, the most appropriate cause for the failure of Raziya was her gender. She was a capable and intelligent ruler, but she faced many challenges because of her gender. The Muslim world at the time was very patriarchal, and many people did not believe that a woman could be a good ruler. Raziya also faced opposition from her own family, who did not want her to rule. In the end, Raziya was overthrown and killed by her own generals.