Classical Civilization India

Which Chinese dynasty is known for its achievements in art, literature, and the development of the Silk Road?

A) Han

B) Zhou

C) Yuan

D) Ming

• After the river valley era, India transitioned into the Mauryan Empire

• Chandragupta Maurya became king of India in 321 BC, created a vast army, & conquered new lands

• Chandragupta’s empire controlled most of the Indian subcontinent

• In 269 B.C., King Asoka took over & expanded the Mauryan Empire to its greatest extent

• Asoka developed new policies of tolerance & nonviolence for his empire

• During his wars of expansion, Asoka converted to Buddhism

• Buddhism spread as a result of Asoka’s influence

Central Beliefs of Buddhism:

◦ Four Noble Truths

◦ Eightfold Path

◦ Nirvana and Enlightenment - achieved by following the Eightfold Path and the Four Noble Truths

◦ Reincarnation

What significant change did King Asoka implement in his policies after expanding the Mauryan Empire?

A) Increased military conquests

B) Policies of tolerance and nonviolence

C) Promotion of Hinduism

D) Expansion of trade networks

• King Asoka Strengthened and spread Buddhism through his Rock Edicts (series of inscriptions carved on rocks/pillars) 

• Sent out Buddhist envoys and missionaries throughout India and surrounding regions in Southeast Asia

• Buddhism spread quickly through Indian Ocean trade into Indonesia and Southeast Asia and along the Silk Roads to China, Korea, and Japan.