Explanations:Ashoka, who ruled the Mauryan Empire from 268 BCE to 232 BCE, is one of the most significant figures in Indian history. His reign is notable for both his military conquests and his later promotion of peace and non-violence. However, the question specifically asks about what Ashoka continued to do when he became king, which requires an understanding of his early reign.
When Ashoka ascended to the throne, he inherited an empire that had already been significantly expanded by his grandfather, Chandragupta Maurya, and his father, Bindusara. Ashoka continued the tradition of military conquests and territorial expansion. He engaged in numerous military campaigns, including the Kalinga War, which was one of the most brutal and significant battles of his reign. The Kalinga War, fought around 261 BCE, resulted in a massive loss of life and destruction, and it is said to have profoundly affected Ashoka, leading to his conversion to Buddhism.
Before his conversion, Ashoka's policies were focused on expanding the empire and consolidating power through military might. He sought to subdue rebellious regions and expand the boundaries of the Mauryan Empire. This aggressive approach was consistent with the practices of his predecessors and was a continuation of the empire's expansionist policies.
It is important to note that Ashoka's later reign saw a significant shift in his policies. After the Kalinga War, he embraced Buddhism and adopted a policy of non-violence and Dharma (righteousness). He promoted peace, moral and ethical governance, and the welfare of his subjects. However, these changes came later in his reign and were not his initial actions upon becoming king.
Therefore, the correct answer is that Ashoka continued to fight wars and expand the empire when he became king. This understanding is crucial for comprehending the historical context of Ashoka's reign and the significant transformation that occurred in his policies after the Kalinga War.