Who among the following was the minister who helped King Ashoka acquire the throne?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) Radhagupta

Explanation:

Radhagupta was the minister who is believed to have played a significant role in helping Ashoka ascend the Mauryan throne after the death of his father, Bindusara.

• After Bindusara's death, there was a succession struggle among his sons.
• Susima, Ashoka’s elder half-brother, was the natural heir.
• However, Ashoka with the support of Radhagupta, the minister of the Mauryan Empire, emerged victorious and eventually became emperor.

Information Booster:

Ashoka became the third ruler of the Mauryan dynasty around 273 BCE, and his formal coronation took place in 269 BCE.

Ashoka the Great – 

Key Highlights:

• Expansion of Empire:
• Under Ashoka, the Mauryan Empire reached its zenith, extending from Afghanistan to Bangladesh.
• Kalinga War (261 BCE):
• Known for his early military conquests, Ashoka’s most significant campaign was the Kalinga War.
• The war caused immense devastation, leading to his conversion to Buddhism and a shift toward peaceful governance.
• Ashoka's Edicts:
• His inscriptions (mainly found on pillars and rocks) document his efforts to promote peace, tolerance, and welfare for his subjects.
• Lion Capital of Ashoka:
• The National Emblem of India is derived from the Lion Capital of Ashoka, found at Sarnath.
• The emblem features the Ashoka Chakra (wheel) at the center of the National Flag, symbolizing Dharma and progress.