Question

1. How did Ashoka use the military and in what way(s) was it bad for his
image as a ruler?

Answer 1

Initially, Ashoka used the military to aggressively expand the Mauryan Empire, but the massive loss of life at Kalinga made him a symbol of cruelty, leading him to embrace Buddhism, renounce violence and reform his ways, which improved his image as a compassionate ruler.

Step-by-step explanation:

Emperor Ashoka initially used the military to expand the Mauryan Empire, but his use of force had a detrimental impact on his image. This was evident after the battle of Kalinga in 260 BCE, where the extensive loss of life, reported to be around 250,000 soldiers, prompted a profound transformation in Ashoka. This battle painted him as both selfish and cruel. However, the aftermath led to his conversion to Buddhism, a change in personality and governing style. Consequently, he focused on reforms to promote welfare and peace rather than military conquest. His remorse turned him towards pacificism, and he engaged in acts of benevolence such as planting trees, digging wells and canals, and erecting Pillars of Ashoka to disseminate his new policies of compassionate rule.

Answer 2

He was a brutal leader, which revolted many

Step-by-step explanation:

Ashoka began his rule with brutal conquests. He was regarded as ruthless, which created an image of blood-thirsty ruler. History has noted that after a particularly bloody march to the Kalinga province of India, during which about 50,000 people were massacred, Ashoka experienced a kind of spiritual change. This change was first and foremost a result of Asoka's familiarity with Buddhist teaching, which advocates non-violence and compassion for all sentient beings.