Asoka

Asoka was an Indian emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who ruled most of the Indian subcontinent from 268 to 232 BCE. He is most famous for embracing Buddhism after witnessing the horrors of war, particularly after the bloody Kalinga War. Asoka's promotion of nonviolence and religious tolerance helped spread Buddhism across Asia, influencing cultures in India and China. His actions matter because they laid early foundations for peaceful governance and cultural exchange. Today, Asoka's legacy inspires leaders and individuals to prioritize peace and compassion; for example, many people practice meditation and mindfulness, which are rooted in Buddhist principles he helped popularize.