Asoka the Great

From that point forward, Asoka dedicated himself to spreading the beliefs of the Buddha to as many people as possible. He set up huge, forty foot pillars with teachings about love, truth, and tolerance, and had rocks carved with his beliefs and peaceful laws. Although he tolerated other religions, Asoka worked towards converting as many people as possible to Buddhism by sending out missionaries through the kingdom and around the neighboring areas. Because of his work, the ideas of the Buddha spread rapidly through all of Asia.

He also opened charitable hospitals and dispensaries for the welfare of the poor. Wells, trees, and rest stops were put in place alongside roads, and he banned all consumption of meat. During Asoka's reign, the Maurya empire became peaceful and prosperous.

Asoka the Great is considered the greatest Maurya leader of all time. At first, his older brother Sumab was supposed to take over, but royal leaders found Asoka to be more efficient and were able to put him into power. As Chandragupta's grandson, he embodied the makeup of a great warrior. At first, he lead many bloody conquests and was able to successfully take over many territories. However, after a bitter battle against Kalinga, he realized how many lives he had killed, and he converted to Buddhism

After Asoka's death, the empire slowly declined as weak leaders failed to continue Asoka's legacy. Eventually, rival princes split regions into separate kingdoms and the Maurya empire ended.