Ancient India Asoka Elephant Army

1.   How does Buddhism spread during Asoka’s rule? Why?

• 1.  Controlled the Kalinga southern Trade Routes.
  
• 2.  Buddhist writings began appearing on stones.
• 3.  Asoka became a Buddhist.
• 4.  Buddhism became a state religion
• 5.  Buddhists monasteries were built.

2.   In what ways was his empire ahead of his time and explain?

• 1. Well paid Army.
• 2. Extensive road system built.
• 3. Through engineering improvements, they built bridges & buildings.

3.   How was his army able to dominate militarily?

• 1.  Well paid army.
• 2.  Well trained army.
• 3.  Elephant Army of 9,000.
• 4.  Multiple archers per elephant (Mounted archers).

4.   What is remarkable about Asoka’s reign?

• 1.  Asoka renounced violence and reigned in a nonviolent empire.
• 2.  Showed religious tolerance.
• 3.  Softened the harsh laws of his predessessors.

5.   Evidence of cultural diffusion?

• 1.  Buddhism spread beyond India and it still survives today throughout Asia.