Ancient India Asoka Elephant Army
1. How does Buddhism spread during Asoka’s rule? Why?
2. In what ways was his empire ahead of his time and explain?
3. How was his army able to dominate militarily?
4. What is remarkable about Asoka’s reign?
5. Evidence of cultural diffusion?
- 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.