Stupas

=Stupas=

Found in classical India, stupas were spherical or moundlike religious shrines that contained personal possessions and relics of the Buddha. These shrines were sponsored by Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor who converted to Buddhism after brutally killing about 150,000 people in his conquests, seeing the belief in dharma which would help unite his people and bring moral welfare. He converted to Buddhism and publicized it, but he still accepted and honored Hinduism. Missionaries that were sent by Ashoka and stupas helped to spread Buddhism even further and encourage more conversions.

Created by: Stacy Fairey 9.23.08 Edited by Hampton Webb on September 24, 2008.
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