1. Ancient rulers/empires of India

2. The Aryans Many believe Aryans wiped out Harappan civilization ???
Aryans conquered different people throughout the peninsula
Established new civilization in the Indus Valley & the Ganges Plain

3. Aryans had no written language at first, developed over time
Spoken language, Sanskrit, became dominant Indian language
Aryans had many epics, long poems that celebrated their heroes
When written language developed, epics, stories, and religious rituals organized into Vedas, or holy books for Hinduism.

4. Order
The Aryan invaders established a social class system called the caste system that set up rules for different people.
5 social classes emerged in Indian society: they ate, married worked and worshipped within their own “caste”

5. Maurya/Ashoka’s Empire
BCE
Northern India, Pakistan, Afghanistan & Ganges plain
Led by Chandragupta Maurya
Empire was divided into provinces ruled by governors appointed by the king
Army & secret police; ruthless
Hinduism & Buddhism practiced

6. Asoka’s Rule & Achievements
Ruler Asoka converted to Buddhism &
Built hospitals for humans and animals
Expanded trade
Planted trees/rest stops
Wrote Asoka’s edicts (laws) carved on pillars
Spread Buddhism
across India & China
Asoka’s death led to disunity

7. Gupta = Golden Age (Time of peace and prosperity)
Gupta Dynasty
Gupta = Golden Age
(Time of peace and prosperity)
Dates: CE
Location: N.& Central India
Founder: Chandragupta II

8. Society Tolerance of Buddhism
Trade w/ China, S.E. Asia and Mediterranean. Exported Cotton, pottery and metal ware
No taxes
Great Literature: Sanskrit language written
Vedas and Bhagvad Gita, poet Kalidasa

9. Achievements/Learning
Mathematics:
Decimal system,
Concept of zero,
Arabic Numerals
Medicine:
Vaccine for small pox
Surgery: set bones, repair facial injuries
Herbal remedies

10. Art & Architecture:
Domed Stupas: large shrines surrounded by walkways and gardens
Stone Carvings: intricate details
Painting rich wall murals of daily life

12. Decline
Invasion by the Huns!!! Mongols from central Asia take over.