History & Civics
The Mauryan kings centralised power, blending strong authority with ethical governance. With reference to this, answer the following questions:
(a) How did Chandragupta Maurya consolidate his authority after defeating the Nandas?
(b) Which edicts highlight Ashoka's commitment to ethical governance?
(c) Which historical sources highlight the king's responsibilities during the Mauryan period?
Mauryan Empire
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Answer
(a) After capturing the capital of Patliputra, Chandragupta Maurya consolidated his authority through a combination of military strength, administrative organization, and alliance-building.
- Established a centralized administration from his capital at Pataliputra.
- Mantri Parishad, a council of ministers individually took care of different departments.
- Maintained a large, well-organized army to secure and expand his territory.
- Implemented the ideas found in the Arthashastra, focusing on espionage, economic control, and efficient governance.
- Revenue was collected and primarily used for public welfare projects.
- Entered into a treaty with Seleucus (a Greek successor of Alexander), securing northwestern territories and gaining diplomatic recognition.
(b) Rock Edict XIII highlights Ashoka's commitment to moral and ethical governance. Ashoka adopted the policy of Dharmavijaya (Victory through Dhamma).
(c) Kautilya's Arthashastra highlights the king's responsibilities during the Mauryan period. Kautilya's ideal state focuses on the welfare of the people, with provisions for the poor and vulnerable, and emphasises the importance of effective leadership.
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Related Questions
How does the Mudrarakshasa shed light on the fall of the Nandas and the rise of Chandragupta Maurya?
Explain the concept of "victory by dhamma" as mentioned in Ashoka's edicts.
Read the following excerpt and answer the questions that follow:
"The Mauryas came to prominence after the overthrow of the Nanda dynasty in the later part of the fourth century BCE. The history of their rule can be reconstructed with fairly authentic evidences from many sources."
(Source: https://www.du.ac.in/uploads/new-web/04012023_Appendix-108.pdf)
(a) How did Alexander's departure from India influence Chandragupta Maurya's rise to power?
(b) Why was the Nanda dynasty unpopular among its people?
(c) How did Bindusara contribute to the expansion of the Mauryan Empire?
The Mauryan Empire declined after Ashoka's death, facing multiple challenges. With reference to this, answer the following questions:
(a) What were the main reasons for the decline of the Mauryan Empire after Ashoka's reign?
(b) How did the financial crisis and military neglect contribute to the weakening of the Mauryan Empire?
(c) What role did the revolts by provincial governors and external invasions play in the fall of the Mauryan Empire?