1. Indian Leaders and Religions Unit 1, SSWH 2 a and b

2. Maurya Empire Chandragupta Maurya killed the king He creates empire (2,000+ miles), united north India – divided empire into 4 provinces Cruel to subjects

3. Emperor Asoka Ruled for 37yrs., greatest ruler Buddhism, ruled “peace to all beings” Improved road system (increased trade, communication, & travel) Subjects treated fairly: toleration, nonviolence Fall of Empire: after his death, people fought for land & power

4. Gupta Empire Created through marriage, expands through war Hinduism primary religion Empire declines from constant invasions

5. Hinduism No founder, collection of different beliefs Upanishads (text): achieve liberation from desires Reincarnation: people reborn to new lives Karma: soul’s good or bad deeds, determines new life Moksha: state of perfect understanding Caste System (social class): strengthened by religion

6. Buddhism: Siddhartha Gautama Enlightenment (wisdom): escape human suffering 4 Noble Truths: basic philosophy to achieve nirvana Nirvana: perfect understanding, no pain, no more reincarnations Rejects Caste System & multiple gods of Hinduism