Around which year (in BC) did Chandragupta Maurya establish the Maurya Empire?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2: 321.
Explanation:
- With the assistance of his mentor Chanakya (Kautilya), Chandragupta Maurya defeated the last Nanda ruler, Dhana Nanda, and established the Mauryan Empire in 321 BCE.
- Conquest of Magadha: Capitalizing on public discontent against Dhana Nanda's tyrannical rule, Chandragupta invaded Magadha and established Pataliputra as his capital.
- Imperial Expansion: The Mauryan Empire was the first major unified empire of ancient India, extending from Afghanistan and Balochistan in the northwest to Bengal in the east and Karnataka in the south.
- War with Seleucus: In 305 BCE, Chandragupta defeated Alexander's general, Seleucus Nicator; this led to a treaty between them, following which Megasthenes arrived at the Mauryan court as an ambassador.
Key Facts Related to the Mauryan Dynasty (Quick Revision):
- Capital: Pataliputra (present-day Patna).
- Prominent Rulers: Chandragupta Maurya (Founder), Bindusara, and Ashoka the Great.
- Literary Sources: The Arthashastra (authored by Chanakya) and the *Indica* (authored by Megasthenes) are the primary sources of information regarding the Mauryan period.
- Religious Affiliation: In the final years of his life, Chandragupta Maurya embraced Jainism and passed away at Shravanabelagola (Karnataka) through the practice of Sallekhana.
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: Who assisted Chandragupta in establishing the Mauryan Empire?
Answer: Chanakya (Vishnugupta/Kautilya).
Question: Which Greek ambassador provided an account of the Mauryan administration in the *Indica*?
Answer: Megasthenes.
Question: Which Nanda king did Chandragupta Maurya defeat?
Answer: Dhana Nanda.