Emperor · 304 BC – 232 BC
Ashoka the Great
Little-Known Facts
- The wheel on the Indian national flag, the Ashoka Chakra, derives from his pillars.
- His edicts were carved in several languages and scripts, including Greek and Aramaic, for his diverse subjects.
Myths & Misconceptions
Did Ashoka force Buddhism on his subjects?
No. His edicts promoted Buddhism and dharma but repeatedly urged tolerance and respect for all religious traditions.