Transcript Indian Leaders and Religions Unit 1, SSWH 2 a

Indian Leaders
and Religions
Unit 1, SSWH 2 a and b
SSWH 2 a & b
Describe the development of Indian
civilization; include the rise and fall of the
Maurya Empire, the “Golden Age” under
Gupta, and the emperor Ashoka.
Explain the development and impact of
Hinduism and Buddhism on India and
subsequent diffusion of Buddhism.
How did the
achievements of the
Chinese and Indians
impact society?
Maurya Empire
• Chandragupta Maurya killed the
king
• He creates empire (2,000+ miles),
united north India – divided
empire into 4 provinces
• Cruel to subjects
p. 84-86
Emperor
Asoka
• Ruled for 37yrs., greatest ruler
• Warrior King with Army of Elephants
• Massacre at Kalinga causes him to
convert to Buddhism
• Buddhist, ruled “peace to all beings”
• Improved road system (increased
trade, communication, & travel)
•Subjects treated fairly:
toleration, nonviolence
•Fall of Empire: after his
death, people fought
for land & power p.
84-91
Gupta Empire
•Created through marriage,
expands through war
•Chandra Gupta I marries &
takes title “King of Kings”
creating the Empire
• Chandra Gupta II expands territory
and rules during the “Golden Age”
of the Empire
• Peace Agreements are made,
Trade Increase, Art and Religion
flourish
• Hinduism primary religion
• Empire declines, invasions p. 85-
Hinduism
• No founder, collection of different beliefs
• Moksha (liberation from desires)
• Reincarnation: reborn to new lives
• Karma: soul’s good or bad deeds,
determines new life
• Upanishads (text): how to achieve
moksha
• Caste System (social class): strengthened
by religion p.76-78
Buddhism: Siddhartha Gautama
• Enlightenment (wisdom): escape
human suffering
• Reincarnation used to gain nirvana
• Nirvana: perfect understanding, no
pain, no more reincarnations
• Jatakas (text): about Buddha
• Rejects Caste System & multiple gods
of Hinduism p.79-82
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