The Mauryan Empire (322 BCE – 185 BCE) was one of the largest and most powerful political empires in ancient India, founded by Chandragupta Maurya under the guidance of Chanakya (Kautilya). Here’s an overview of its political history:
1. Founding of the Mauryan Empire (322 BCE)
- Chandragupta Maurya (322–298 BCE) overthrew the Nanda Dynasty with the help of Chanakya.
- Defeated Seleucus Nicator (general of Alexander the Great) in 305 BCE, gaining territories in Afghanistan and Balochistan (Treaty of 303 BCE).
- Governed using Chanakya’s Arthashastra (a treatise on statecraft, economics, and military strategy).
- Followed Jainism in later life and abdicated the throne for his son, Bindusara.
2. Reign of Bindusara (298–273 BCE)
- Expanded the empire further south (possibly up to Karnataka).
- Maintained diplomatic relations with the Seleucid Empire and Greek kingdoms.
- Known as “Amitraghata” (Slayer of Enemies).
- Patronized Ajivika sect (a heterodox school of Indian philosophy).
3. Ashoka the Great (268–232 BCE)
- Initially a fierce ruler who conquered Kalinga (261 BCE) in a bloody war.
- After the Kalinga War, he embraced Buddhism and adopted Dhamma (Dharma) policy.
- Issued Rock and Pillar Edicts across India, promoting morality, non-violence, and welfare.
- Sent Buddhist missionaries to Sri Lanka, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia.
- Empire stretched from Afghanistan to Bengal and down to Karnataka.
4. Decline of the Mauryan Empire (232–185 BCE)
- Weak successors after Ashoka (e.g., Dasharatha, Samprati, Brihadratha).
- Economic strain due to vast administration and loss of revenue.
- Brahmanical backlash against Ashoka’s pro-Buddhist policies.
- External invasions (e.g., Bactrian Greeks).
- Assassination of Brihadratha by his general Pushyamitra Shunga (185 BCE), leading to the rise of the Shunga Dynasty.