Decline of Mauryan Empire Video Lecture | SSC CGL Tier 2 - Study Material, Online Tests, Previous Year

Ans. The decline of the Mauryan Empire can be attributed to several factors. One of the major reasons was the economic drain caused by the extensive military campaigns and the maintenance of a large army. Additionally, the empire faced internal conflicts, including succession disputes and revolts by regional governors. The influence of Jainism and Buddhism also played a role, as the Mauryan rulers embraced these religions, which promoted non-violence and pacifism. This led to a decline in the military strength of the empire. Lastly, the death of Emperor Ashoka, who was a key figure in the Mauryan Empire, resulted in a power vacuum and subsequent fragmentation of the empire.

Ans. Economic factors played a significant role in the decline of the Mauryan Empire. The empire's extensive military campaigns and the maintenance of a large army resulted in a massive economic drain. The state's treasury was strained due to the cost of maintaining a standing army and funding military expeditions. These factors led to financial instability and weakened the economic foundations of the empire. Additionally, the Mauryan Empire relied heavily on revenue from trade and agriculture. However, with the decline in trade routes and agricultural productivity, the empire faced a decline in revenue, further exacerbating its economic woes.

Ans. Internal conflicts played a significant role in the decline of the Mauryan Empire. Succession disputes among the Mauryan rulers created a sense of instability and weakened the empire's central authority. The assassination of Emperor Bindusara's successor, Sushima, led to a power struggle and subsequent fragmentation of the empire. Regional governors also revolted against the central authority, further contributing to the disintegration of the empire. These internal conflicts not only weakened the political stability of the empire but also drained its resources and military strength, ultimately leading to its decline.

Ans. The influence of Jainism and Buddhism played a significant role in the decline of the Mauryan Empire. Emperor Ashoka, one of the prominent Mauryan rulers, embraced Buddhism and propagated its teachings throughout the empire. Both Jainism and Buddhism emphasized non-violence and pacifism, leading to a decline in the empire's military strength. Ashoka's policies of non-violence and his renunciation of warfare resulted in a reduced focus on defense and weakened the empire's ability to fend off external threats. Furthermore, the patronage of these religions diverted the empire's resources and attention away from governance and military affairs, ultimately contributing to its decline.

Ans. The death of Emperor Ashoka had a significant impact on the Mauryan Empire. Ashoka was a key figure in the empire's history, known for his policies of non-violence, religious tolerance, and social welfare. However, his death resulted in a power vacuum and a lack of strong leadership. The subsequent rulers were unable to match Ashoka's administrative and military capabilities, leading to a decline in governance and central authority. The absence of a strong leader also allowed internal conflicts and regional revolts to flourish, further contributing to the disintegration of the empire.