The Maurya and Gupta Empires

The Mauryan Empire Around 323 B.C., a great empire emerged in northern India. It was known as the Maurya empire. A ruler by the name of Chandragupta conquered most of northern and central India. Chandragupta believed that a ruler must have absolute power, so he led an army of thousands of foot soldiers to enforce law and crush any revolts It was an colossal empire!

King Asoka Chandragupta passed his leadership down to his son, Asoka King Asoka was considered the greatest ruler of the Maurya Empire. He converted to Buddhism after witnessing the bloody battle of Kalinga King Asoka was religiously tolerant. He respected all religions. He improved roads, built hospitals, and sent missionaries throughout the empire to encourage education and spread Buddhism.

The Collapse of the Mauryan Empire The Mauryan empire began to weaken after the death of King Asoka. The last emperor was assassinated around 185 B.C. Five centuries of disorder followed.

Around 320 A.D., another great Indian empire emerged. It was known as the Gupta empire.

The Gupta Empire The rulers of the Gupta empire encouraged peace, prosperity, and trade. The Gupta empire is considered a golden age of Hindu culture. A golden age is known as a time of peace, prosperity, and great achievements. Indian mathematicians discovered the concept of zero and the decimal system

Indian artists created beautiful works of art and great works of literature were produced during the golden age

Video – Maurya Empire