Maurya empire

• Maurya

  • Founded by Chandragupta Maurya (ruled from 324 to 301 B.C)
  • First and highly centralized Indian empire and even despotic/oppressive
  • Established departments for trade, agriculture, etc.
• The fall of Maurya

  • Brihadratha was assassinated
  • Succession of weak kings
  • Invasions
  • Lasted from 324 B.C. to 183 B.C.
• Ashoka/Asoka


  • Grandson of Chandragupta Maurya
  • Reign: 269-232 BCE
  • Began his reign conquering and killing
  • Converted to Buddhism and used it as a guide to his rule
  • Greatest ruler in the history of India - Set up hospitals for both people and animals & trees and shelters along the road to provide shade and rest for weary travelers
• Rock edict of Ashoka


  Contains buddhist teachings, announcements and lessons