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