Fast & Curious: Ashoka

What was the main achievement of the Maurya family?

• They unified India into one kingdom.

• They imposed Buddhism on conquered people.

• They built famous temples.

• They improved the lives of peasants.

Ashoka expanded the Mauryan Empire until he

• moved to China.

• gave up violence.

• reached the mountains.

• surrendered to his cousin.

Which experience led to a deep change in Ashoka’s values?

• marrying a Buddhist

• hearing Buddha's first sermon

• discovering old age and illness

• seeing a very bloody battle

Which Buddhist value did these actions by Ashoka reflect when he gave up hunting and became a vegetarian?

• respect for all living things

• toleration of other religions

• honesty in words and actions

• awareness that everything changes

In what important way did Ashoka spread Buddhist teachings?

• He required conquered people to convert.

• He had edicts carved into pillars and walls.

• He had peasants taught how to read & write.

• He made speeches in many places around the empire.

To promote Buddhism, justice and general wellbeing in his kingdom, Ashoka carved edicts into rocks, walls, and pillars. An edict is

• something that encourages growth.

• a map guiding people to holy places.

• an official order given a ruler

• writing that describes religious beliefs.

Around how many Kalingans died in the Battle of Kalinga?

• none - they surrendered without fighting

• 10,000

• 50,000

• 200,000

Why did Ashoka want Kalinga as part of his empire?

• Its location gave access to sea trade routes in the Bay of Bengal.

• It was territory lost by Ashoka's grandfather, and he wanted to reclaim it.

• The people begged Ashoka to come and free them from their ruler.

• He felt it was his religious duty as a Buddhist.

Which piece of evidence supports the claim that Ashoka is an important figure in modern India?

• The country is named for his empire.

• Modern India's laws are based on Ashoka's edicts.

• Ashoka's symbol is on the Indian flag.

• Ashoka's face is on every Indian coin.

How did Ashoka's ideas change after finding enlightenment?

• He was dedicated to peace, fairness and helping people.

• He was even more determined to expand his territory.

• He became devoted to Hindu beliefs.

• He gave up his power and lived the rest of his life as a monk.