Golden Age of Maurya India

Mauryan Empire

• India's "Golden Age“ • A time of great wealth,

but also a time of great violence.

• India would become united under one ruler during this empire's reign.

What is a golden age?

• Around 323 B.C., a great empire emerged in northern India.

• First King of the empire was Chandragupta.

• He believed in absolute power over the people he conquered.

• Under his reign India prospered and enjoyed great

success..

Chandragupta’s Rule

Absolute Rule:The belief that a ruler must have complete

control over its people.

Why is having an a leader with absolute power a bad/dangerous

situation?

Conquering the LandChandragupta commanded a huge army to control his subjects.

King Asoka

• When Chandragupta died, the empire passed to his son, then grandson, Asoka.

• King Asoka was the greatest ruler of the Mauryan empire.

India’s Secret Weapons

In Ancient India: Elephants were used as weapons in battle to strike fear into the hearts of the enemies.

Battle of Kalinga

King Asoka converted to Buddhism after witnessing this bloody battle of Kalinga.

Over 100,00 died!

Putting things in perspective..

Lafayette, IN--- 68,000 people

Pulaski County---13,363 people

South Bend, IN--- 105,000 people

Has there been a time where an experience you had made you rethink or change the way you do

things?

•After Kalinga--King Asoka became a religiouslytolerant ruler •Asoka ruled a vast empire bordered on the North by the huge Himalayan Mountains.

King Asoka encouraged teachers tospread Buddhism throughout India and

beyond.

The Collapse of the Mauryan Empire

• Asoka and his rule are remembered in the modern Indian flag.

• The wheel of law, or Dharma Chakra, is on many of Asoka's pillars and has been the focal point of India's flag since 1947.

Do you know these terms....

• Absolute Power:a ruler’s complete control over the people.

• Convert:A change in belief (religious belief) of a person.

Know these as well:• Asoka• Chandragupta• Himalaya Mts. • Elephant Army• Kalinga• Dharma Chakra• Mauryan Empire