In one or two paragraphs, explain why you think the Mauryan Empire fell apart so quickly after the death of Ashoka the Great. Provide at least two possible reasons for the collapse.

After Ashoka's death, a series of less skilled emperors came to power. These emperors changed some of his policies. They were less accepting of other religions, and some did not respect Hinduism. The empire was divided, and local leaders took more control. Invaders from northern kingdoms attacked the divided empire, further weakening it. By 180 BCE, just 50 years after Ashoka's death, the empire had broken into many smaller, independent kingdoms.

Explanation:

the idealization of the rural landscape ; admiration for the beauty of nature ; focus on an individual's inner concerns