Asoka Dbq

Throughout the course of history, there have been many powerful rulers who have led supreme empires and kingdoms. The Mauryan Empire, a vast empire in Ancient India, had some rulers who wrongfully used their power. However, Asoka, ruler of the Mauryan Empire from 268 to 232 BCE, was enlightened because he deeply cared for his people, was extremely remorseful of his wrongdoings in his actions, and valued everyone despite their differences or what they have done in the past. Asoka was an enlightened ruler because he was willing to go beyond the unspoken limits to care for his empire and its residents' well being. As an example, according to the map, Asoka was willing to go to war with Kalinga, a land East of Asoka’s empire. Despite the fact

For instance, Romila Thaper argues that Asoka discontinued his indulgence in wars after witnessing the horrific battles during the conquest of Kalinga. This establishes that Asoka was an informed individual because he changed his mindset due to the weight that his actions placed on his mind. Asoka felt bad for the people that were killed because of his violent battles so he attempted to take responsibility for his wrongdoings by completely halting his aggressive ways. Additionally, Asoka lives up to his title as an enlightened ruler because he became a Buddhist. According to historian Micheal Wood, Asoka set off on a journey to find a teacher or a guru. He found a Buddhist monk who guided him to enlightenment. This shows that Asoka was not only enlightened spiritually, but as a leader too. Asoka had gone out of his way to change his faith so he could discontinue what he realized was wrong. Finally, he not only changed his faith and mindset but also worked tremendously hard to be forgiven. According to Wood, Asoka had also given “rich gifts to the poor'' while on a path of nonviolence (Document C). This highlights that Asoka was clearly an enlightened ruler because he took responsibility for his wrongdoings by completely giving up his luxury as a sign of regret. Asoka wanted to help people after hurting so many. Without doubt, Asoka was an enlightened ruler because he was horrified by his errors and worked tremendously to be