Wednesday, May 2, 2012 Agenda  Bell Assignment  Notes Ch. 4 Section 2  Edicts of Asoka!  Next Test: Thursday!

Something to think about....  When, if ever, should religious or philosophical beliefs of a ruler influence government policies?

Powerful Empires of India Ch. 4 Section 2 World History

What’s Happened in India?  Aryans have mingled with the Harrapans and created a new civilization.  Two religions have developed: Hinduism and Buddhism

Geography

Maurya Empire  The earliest empire created in India was known as the Maurya Empire.  The Maurya rulers controlled a vast area of India from 321 B.C. – 185 B.C.  The first ruler of the Maurya empire was Chandragupta.

Chandragupta  Chandragupta was the first ruler of the Maurya empire.  He was a harsh but effective ruler.  He maintained order through a well ordered bureaucracy (officials who oversaw tax collection, building of roads and harbors, state owned factories, etc.)  In addition, he had a secret police that reported corruption and dissent.

Asoka  After Chandragupta, the next notable ruler was his grandson Asoka.  In the beginning of Asoka’s reign, his leadership style was very similar to Chandragupta.  Asoka was well known for his military leadership, which added lots of territory to the Maurya Empire.  Eventually, Asoka became disgusted with war and violence and converted to Buddhism.

What is Buddhism?  A major religion that developed in India around 500 B.C. that emphasizes the respect for all life (human and animal)  It’s main belief is that life is filled with suffering and one must end suffering to find peace.  In order to end suffering, one must follow the Eightfold Path.

Eightfold Path  Right speech – Always use kind words. NO rude of hurtful words.  Right behavior  Right meditation  Right views – Having a positive outlook on life.  Right effort – Try to do your best  Right mindfulness – Always being aware of your actions. Be sure that they are good and honest. Resist evil thoughts  Right livelihood – find a job that is helpful than harmful to society.  Right goals – Having good intentions.

Asoka  Asoka’s conversion to Buddhism led to his recognition as the most honored emperor of the Maurya Empire.  His rule influenced the Maurya Empire in many ways:  He brought peace and prosperity and united the diverse people of the Maurya Empire.  He encouraged tolerance.  He built more roads to aid with transportation.  He erected stone pillars announcing the laws and a righteous government.  He helped Buddhism become a major religion in India, thus allowing it to spread into China and other surrounding areas.  He built hospitals to aid with medical treatment.  He limited Hindu animal sacrifices.

Pillar of Asoka

Bell Assignment  Read pg. 553 and answer questions 1 – 3!

Gupta Dynasty  After Asoka’s death, the Maurya Empire was thrown into turmoil, as rival princes fought for control of the empire.  Around 320 A.D. (500 years after Asoka), a new dynasty known as the Gupta dynasty gained control of India.

Golden Age of India  Because of the peace and prosperity that was brought back to India by the Gupta dynasty. The encouraged the building of Buddhist monasteries,which were also used a schools. India enjoyed a golden age with many achievements.  The following were achievements of India:  Decimal system  Concept of zero  Small pox vaccine  stupas  murals