7. The Mauryan Empire
The Mauryan Empire marked the first significant political unification of the Indian subcontinent, initiated by Chandragupta Maurya in 322 BCE. The empire reached its zenith under Ashoka, who championed Buddhism and a code of ethics following the Kalinga War, greatly influencing future Indian governance and culture. Its administration was noted for its organization and efficiency, while its decline was attributed to weak successors and internal strife, setting a precedent for future empires in India.
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What we have learnt
- The Mauryan Empire was the first major empire in India, established by Chandragupta Maurya.
- Emperor Ashoka significantly influenced Buddhism and ethical governance in his reign.
- The empire's administration was centralized, with a well-structured bureaucracy that helped manage a vast territory.
Key Concepts
- -- Mauryan Empire
- The first major empire in India, founded in 322 BCE, characterized by its political unification under a centralized administration.
- -- Ashoka's Dhamma
- A moral and ethical code promoted by Emperor Ashoka post-Kalinga War, emphasizing non-violence, respect to elders, and religious tolerance.
- -- Administrative Structure
- The organized bureaucratic framework of the Mauryan Empire that included roles such as the King, treasury officials, and a spy system.
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