Transcript Indian Empires and Religions

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
ORIGINS:
• Chandragupta Maurya killed the
king
• United northern India – divided
empire into 4 provinces
Empire Develops
KEY LEADER:
• Emperor Asoka—ruled for 37yrs
• Warrior King with Army of Elephants
EVENTS/ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
• Massacre at Kalinga causes him to
convert to Buddhism
• Buddhist, ruled “peace to all beings”
• Improved road system (increased trade,
communication, & travel)
Fall of Empire:
•after Asoka’s death,
people fought for land
& power
p. 84-91
Gupta Empire
ORIGINS
•Created through marriage,
expands through war
•Chandra Gupta I marries &
takes title “King of Kings”
creating the Empire
KEY LEADER
• Chandra Gupta II expands territory
and rules during the “Golden Age”
of the Empire
• Peace Agreements are made,
• Trade Increase, Art &Religion
flourish
• Hinduism primary religion
EMPIRE DECLINES:
Invasions
Hinduism
Origin/Founder:
• No founder, collection of different beliefs
Beliefs/gods: (100s)
• Brahma—the creator
• Shiva—the destroyer
• Vishnu—the protector
Key Beliefs:
• Moksha (liberation from desires)
• Reincarnation: reborn to new lives
• Karma: soul’s good or bad deeds, determines
new life
Sacred Texts
• Upanishads—text how to achieve moksha
• Vedas—prayer book
Impact on Society
• Caste system based on religious reincarnation
Buddhism
Founder:
Siddhartha Gautama
Beliefs:
• Enlightenment (wisdom): escape
human suffering
• Reincarnation used to gain nirvana
• Nirvana: perfect understanding, no
pain, no more reincarnations
Sacred Writings:
• Jatakas (text): about Buddha
Impact of Society:
• Rejects Caste System &
multiple gods of Hinduism
p.79-82
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