Ashoka
Mauryan emperor of India (304–232 BCE) who, after the devastating Kalinga War, converted to Buddhism and became the first ruler in world history to renounce warfare and govern through non-violence and compassion.
Ashoka's transformation is one of history's most extraordinary: a conqueror who won the Indian subcontinent through brutal warfare and then, horrified by the suffering he had caused at the Battle of Kalinga (c. 261 BCE), abandoned conquest entirely and rededicated his empire to dhamma, righteous living, religious tolerance, and social welfare.
He erected pillars and rock edicts throughout his empire recording his philosophy: all subjects deserved equal treatment; no animal should be killed unnecessarily; rulers must be accountable to the people; religious tolerance is a state virtue. These are among history's earliest state proclamations of human rights.
His adoption of Buddhism as a state philosophy spread it throughout Asia. Buddhist missionaries sent to Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia during his reign planted traditions that survive today. Without Ashoka, Buddhism might have remained a local Indian movement rather than a world religion.
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
What was the Kalinga War? ＋
A brutal conquest (c. 261 BCE) in which Ashoka's forces killed or enslaved hundreds of thousands. Confronting the devastation, Ashoka experienced profound remorse, converted to Buddhism, and renounced further conquest.
What are Ashoka's edicts? ＋
Rock and pillar inscriptions throughout the Mauryan empire recording Ashoka's philosophy of dhamma, righteous governance, non-violence, religious tolerance, and care for subjects. They are among the earliest state declarations of proto-human-rights principles.