Correct Answer: Option A

Explanation:

The correct answer is option A, which states that the pair 241-72 represents the reign of Shapur I in Iran. Let's examine each option to understand why option A is the correct match.

1. 241-72: Reign of Shapur I in Iran
- Shapur I was the second king of the Sasanian Empire, which was located in present-day Iran. He ruled from 240 to 270 CE.
- Shapur I's reign was marked by significant military victories and territorial expansions, including successful campaigns against the Roman Empire.
- During his reign, Shapur I built several cities, constructed roads, and promoted trade and commerce.
- The period from 241 to 272 aligns with the reign of Shapur I, making option A the correct match.

2. Papyrus: Almanac
- Papyrus is a material made from the pith of the papyrus plant and was widely used in ancient Egypt for writing and record-keeping.
- While papyrus was used for various purposes, including administrative records, legal documents, and literary texts, it is not specifically associated with almanacs.
- Almanacs are annual publications that provide information on various topics such as weather predictions, astronomical data, and calendars.
- Therefore, option B is not correctly matched.

3. Parthians: Asian Rulers
- The Parthians were a historical Iranian civilization that ruled over a vast empire in ancient Iran and parts of Central Asia.
- The Parthian Empire, which existed from 247 BCE to 224 CE, extended its influence from the Euphrates River in the west to the Indus River in the east.
- While the Parthians were indeed Asian rulers, option C does not provide any specific information or context about their rule, making it an incomplete match.

4. Drainage Pattern: Striking Feature of Roman Empire
- Drainage patterns refer to the arrangement and flow of rivers and streams in a particular geographical area.
- While the Roman Empire had an extensive network of aqueducts and drainage systems to manage water resources, it is not considered a striking or defining feature of the empire.
- The Roman Empire is known for its vast territorial expanse, governance, architecture, and cultural contributions, but drainage patterns do not play a prominent role in understanding the empire.
- Therefore, option D is not correctly matched.

In conclusion, after analyzing each option, it is evident that option A, which states that 241-72 represents the reign of Shapur I in Iran, is the correctly matched pair.