The Mauryan Empire (322–185 BCE) was the first pan-Indian empire, founded by Chandragupta Maurya with the aid of Chanakya (Kautilya). It unified the subcontinent under a centralized administration.

Administration & Economy

Guided by the Arthashastra, the state controlled key industries, maintained a standing army, and established an elaborate espionage system. Trade flourished via the Grand Trunk Road.

Ashoka the Great

Grandson of Chandragupta, Ashoka is famous for renouncing war after the Kalinga conquest and embracing Buddhism, spreading 'Dhamma' (moral law) across Asia.

Timeline

• 322 BCE: Chandragupta Maurya overthrows the Nandas.
• 305 BCE: Defeat of Seleucus Nicator; Mauryan territory expands to Afghanistan.
• 298-273 BCE: Reign of Bindusara.
• 268-232 BCE: Reign of Ashoka.
• 261 BCE: Kalinga War.
• 185 BCE: Assassination of Brihadratha; fall of the empire.