Section 3- Powerful Empires of India Maurya and Gupta

Chandragupta’s Empire Chandragupta Maurya forged (built) the first empire in India. His empire lasted from 321 B.C. to 185 B.C. A well-maintained bureacracy kept order throughout his empire. His rule was effective, but harsh. –Secret police

“Asoka’s Elephant Warriors” 1) What “firsts” did Asoka’s rule mark in Indian civilization? 2) How was Asoka able to build his empire? What was his most formidable weapon? 3) What religion did Asoka adopt after his defeat of Kalinga? Why? 4) What did Asoka do to spread the ideas of Buddhism?

India Remains Divided There are many kingdoms throughout India during its history. The Dravidian south was much different than the Aryan north. Unity was not achieved again until about 500 years later under the Gupta Empire.

The Gupta Empire and Golden Age in India

What is a golden age? A golden age is a great period of cultural achievement. The Guptas ruled from 320 A.D A.D. Peace and prosperity are key characteristic of the Gupta Empire, which is why there was a flowering of the arts and learning during this time period.

Advances in Learning Students were taught in religious schools, but their learning was not restricted to just religious matters. Mathematics –Number system –Decimal system –Concept of zero

Medicine –Indian doctors were setting bones, performing minor sugeries, and perhaps vaccinating against small pox

Advances in Literature The greatest Indian poet was named Kalidasa who wrote the famous play Shakuntala

Gupta Decline Weak rulers, civil war, and foreign invaders are all reasons for the decline of the Gupta Empire. The Huns invaded and destroyed cities and trade. India was divided again.

Family and Village Life Shape Indian Society Joint Family Structure -Parents, children, and their offspring shared a common dwelling. -Patriarchal- father or oldest male ruled the household

The Family Performs Certain Duties Family trained children in the traditions and duties of their castes. Parents arranged marriages. Dowry- payment to the bridegroom

Role of Women Changes Over Time -Women’s duties were to be married and have children. -Upper-class women were particularly restricted. -Women have a creative energy called shakti. -Completes a man, but can also be dangerous, and must be channeled in the right direction by their husbands. -Women were born into a higher existance through devotion to their husbands. Widows performed Sati, burning themselves to death on their husbands funeral pyre.

The End