Questions: How did Asoka spread Buddhism throughout the Mauryan Empire?

The answer is: He created more than one hundred monuments to the Buddha's teaching.

Explanation for each option:

1. He created more than one hundred monuments to the Buddha's teaching: This is the correct answer. Asoka, also known as Ashoka the Great, was a Mauryan emperor who played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism. After converting to Buddhism, he erected numerous stupas and pillars inscribed with edicts that promoted Buddhist teachings and moral precepts. These monuments were spread throughout his empire and beyond, helping to disseminate Buddhist principles widely.

2. He issued commands that forced his subjects to convert to Buddhism: This is incorrect. While Asoka did promote Buddhism and encouraged his subjects to follow its teachings, there is no historical evidence to suggest that he forced conversion. His approach was more about persuasion and setting an example through his own adherence to Buddhist principles.

3. He made Buddhism the state religion and put Buddhist symbols on money: This is partially correct but not the best answer. Asoka did indeed incorporate Buddhist symbols into various aspects of statecraft, including coinage and official seals. However, he did not make Buddhism the state religion in a way that excluded other religions. His edicts often emphasized religious tolerance and respect for all faiths.

4. He went to war with neighboring territories and exiled those who disagreed: This is incorrect. After the Kalinga War, Asoka experienced a profound transformation and adopted Buddhism, renouncing violence and promoting peace. His subsequent efforts were focused on spreading Buddhist teachings through non-violent means, such as building monuments and sending missionaries, rather than through warfare or exile.

By understanding these options, it becomes clear that Asoka's primary method of spreading Buddhism was through the construction of monuments and the dissemination of his edicts, which emphasized Buddhist teachings and moral conduct.