Ashoka the Great for Kids: Who Were They?

304-232 BCEMauryan Empire, India

After winning a brutal war, Ashoka felt terrible about the violence. He became Buddhist and spent the rest of his life promoting peace.

Famous for

Spreading Buddhism and moral governance

Achievement

Rock edicts promoting peace and dharma across empire

Why they matter

First major ruler to promote ethical governance based on compassion

In their words

All men are my children

Fun fact

He carved his messages about peace on rocks and pillars throughout India

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