Question

Is Asoka a ruthless conqueror or enlightened ruler? Explain your thinking.

a. Ruthless Conqueror: Asoka's rule was marked by brutal military campaigns and aggressive conquests.
b. Enlightened Ruler: Asoka embraced Buddhism, promoted non-violence, and implemented policies for the welfare of his people.
c. Both Ruthless Conqueror and Enlightened Ruler: Asoka exhibited qualities of both ruthlessness and enlightenment during his rule.
d. Neither Ruthless Conqueror nor Enlightened Ruler: Asoka's reign had no significant impact on his people or neighboring regions.

Answer 1

Ashoka can be considered both a ruthless conqueror and an enlightened ruler. He initially engaged in brutal military campaigns but later converted to Buddhism, embraced non-violence, and implemented welfare policies for his people.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ashoka, the Indian emperor of the Maurya Dynasty, can be considered both a ruthless conqueror and an enlightened ruler. Initially, Ashoka's rule was marked by brutal military campaigns and aggressive conquests, such as the battle of Kalinga in which a quarter of a million soldiers died. However, after experiencing the intense human distress caused by the war, Ashoka had a change of heart. He converted to Buddhism, embraced non-violence, and implemented policies for the welfare of his people. He built hospitals, dug wells, introduced writing, and erected stone pillars on which he declared his policies and aspirations to his people.