Mauryan Empire

Discuss the political organization of the Mauryan Empire, and how did ideas promoted by the Arthasastra influence the government? Janapadas (700 BCE – 300 BCE) Territories with leadership determined by family lineage Urban capitals and political administrations (republics and monarachies) Magadha emerges as an imperial power over all Chandragupta Maurya – emerges as leader of Magadha in 321BCE Exerts authority over other Janapadas Replaces the familial lineage in political structures w/ “imperial government” Bureaucratic organization – 4 regions, and local governments Responsible for collecting taxes and administering the laws

Janapadas (Magadha)

Artha-sastra Governed according to the Artha-sastra – manual of politics and economics attributed to Kautilya, minister of Chandragupta Maurya Danda niti – “policy of the scepter” or “Policy of the big stick” Describe some of the components of governing according to the Artha-sastra

Mauryan Kings Chandragupta Maurya-became king of Magadha. Conquered much of Northern India Bindusara-expanded still further the empire Asoka-brought the empire to its greatest size and power (100 million)

Discuss gender and the treatment of women in Mauryan society. State enforced rule of behavior between males and females Males Females

What role did the government play in religion and the social hierarchy?

Discuss the causes for and results of Asoka’s conversion to Buddhism.

Maurya Empire at its height under Asoka Stupa at Sanchi (Asoka)

Maurya Empire Asoka

Buddhist Dharma

Describe the Mauryan Empire’s collapse.

What happened after the collapse What happened after the collapse? Include political and cultural changes.