Who was defeated by Chandragupta Maurya in order to found the Maurya dynasty?

Correct option is A

Correct Answer: (a) Dhana Nanda
Explanation:
Chandragupta Maurya, with the guidance of Chanakya (Kautilya), defeated Dhana Nanda, the last ruler of the Nanda Dynasty, to establish the Maurya Empire in 321 BCE. Dhana Nanda's oppressive taxation policies and autocratic rule created widespread dissatisfaction, which Chandragupta and Chanakya capitalized on to lead a successful rebellion.
The Maurya Empire, with its capital at Pataliputra (modern Patna), became one of the largest and most influential empires in Indian history, unifying the Indian subcontinent for the first time.
Key Facts (Exam-Oriented):
● Chandragupta Maurya’s victory over Dhana Nanda symbolized the end of regional dynasties in ancient India. ● Pataliputra (modern Patna) became the capital of the newly established Maurya Empire. ● Chanakya (Kautilya) was the chief architect of Chandragupta’s success, authoring the Arthashastra on governance and strategy. ● The Maurya Empire was one of the largest in ancient India and unified most of the subcontinent. ● Chandragupta’s army defeated the Nanda Empire, known for its vast wealth and large army (200,000 infantry, 80,000 cavalry, and 6,000 war elephants). ● Chandragupta later embraced Jainism and spent his final years in Shravanabelagola, Karnataka.
Information Booster (Additional Insights):Bimbisara: A Haryanka dynasty king who ruled Magadha centuries before Chandragupta. Mahapadma Nanda: Founder of the Nanda dynasty and predecessor of Dhana Nanda. Ajatashatru: A Haryanka dynasty ruler and son of Bimbisara, famous for conflicts with Vaishali and Licchavis.