Sources of Mauryan History

An important time in the history of the area was the Mauryan Empire, which flourished in ancient India from the fourth to the second century BCE. The sources that historians and academics have access to are extremely important for understanding the Mauryan Empire and its accomplishments.
To shed light on the important resources that offer insights into this important period, this article reviews the sources of Mauryan history.

1. Arthashastra:
The book Arthashastra, credited to the illustrious scholar and politician Chanakya, also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta, is one of the main sources of Mauryan history. The governance, administration, economy, and diplomacy during the Mauryan era are all covered in detail in this ancient literature. It offers insightful information on the Mauryan Empire's politics, diplomacy, and policies.

2. Rock & Pillar Edicts:
The Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, who is famed for converting to Buddhism and advancing moral values, left behind an important historical record through his "rock and pillar edicts," which are decrees that are carved into the sides of buildings. These carvings on pillars and rocks scattered around the empire provide insights into Ashoka's policies, religious convictions, and administrative practices. They offer insightful details regarding the Mauryan government, social welfare programs, and the growth of Buddhism.

3. Greek & Roman Accounts:
The travel and historical writings of the ancient Greeks and Romans are crucial outside sources for understanding Mauryan history. The views and interactions of Greek historians with the Mauryan Empire were recorded, including those of Megasthenes, a Greek envoy to the Mauryan court. Their writings, like Indika, offer insightful analyses of Mauryan society, the economy, and the government.

4. Buddhist Texts:
Buddhist writings from the Tripitaka and other canonical texts provide insights into the Mauryan Period. These sources make mention of Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism and his initiatives to spread the faith throughout the empire. Additionally, they shed light on the socioreligious climate and the effects of Buddhism on Mauryan society.

5. Numismatic Evidence:
Coins created during the Mauryan period offer crucial archaeological data for comprehending the political and economic elements of the empire. The names and titles of the monarchs are inscribed on Mauryan coins, which aid in identifying and dating various kings. The analysis of numismatic evidence helps to outline the history and boundaries of the Mauryan Empire.

6. Epigraphic Records:
Inscriptions found on cave walls, monuments, and other structures are among the epigraphic records that help us comprehend the Mauryan era. The information on royal gifts, contributions, and religious endowments made by monarchs and affluent people is provided by these inscriptions. They provided insight into regional governance, social norms, and religious patronage throughout the Mauryan era.

7. Archaeological Excavations:
At locations like Taxila and Pataliputra (modern-day Patna), archaeological excavations have uncovered artifacts and structural remnants that provide important information on Mauryan architecture, urban design, and material culture. The urban life and physical infrastructure of the empire are demonstrably demonstrated by these excavations.

In Conclusion, Buddhist literature, Greek and Roman narratives, rock and pillar edicts, numismatic evidence, epigraphic records, archaeological digs, and other sources are all frequently consulted while studying Mauryan history. These sources help us comprehend the Mauryan Empire's administration, sociological structures, economic systems, and religious facets as a whole. Historians and academics are still pulling together information from various sources to learn more about this crucial time in ancient Indian history.