why did buddhism and christianity spread when ans as it did in 300 bce to 1000 ce?
We'll be glad to critique your answer.
Since you're in AP history, I know that you would rather research these questions yourself.
i really wouldnt mind ur help, im stuck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I used YOUR words and http://www.google.com. It's just not that hard:
http://www.google.com/search?q=spread+of+buddhism&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7SUNA_en
http://www.google.com/search?q=spread+of+christianity&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7SUNA_en
Read carefully.
Ashoka promoted Buddhist expansion by sending monks to surrounding territories to share the teachings of the Buddha.
The spread of Buddhism and Christianity during the period of 300 BCE to 1000 CE can be attributed to various factors. Let's break it down and understand how each religion expanded during this time frame:
1. Buddhism:
a. Foundational Teachings: Buddhism originated in India with the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha. The attractiveness of Buddhist teachings, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, resonated with people seeking spiritual liberation and an escape from suffering.
b. Emperor Ashoka: Emperor Ashoka, a powerful ruler of the Mauryan Empire in India, embraced Buddhism in the 3rd century BCE. His patronage and propagation of Buddhism significantly contributed to its spread, especially across Asia.
c. Trade Routes: Buddhist monks and merchants traveled along the Silk Road and other trading routes, disseminating Buddhist teachings as they traveled to various regions. This facilitated the spread of Buddhism to Central Asia, China, Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
d. Cultural Adaptation: Buddhism absorbed local beliefs and customs as it spread to new regions, adapting to local cultures and incorporating indigenous traditions. This flexibility helped Buddhism become more accessible to diverse populations.
2. Christianity:
a. The Life of Jesus: Christianity began with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ in the 1st century CE. Jesus gained a following through his ministry and performed miracles, capturing the attention of people seeking spiritual fulfillment and a relationship with God.
b. Apostle Paul: After the death of Jesus, the apostle Paul played a crucial role in spreading Christianity. He embarked on missionary journeys throughout the Roman Empire, establishing Christian communities and writing letters that formed the basis of the New Testament.
c. Roman Empire: Christianity received official recognition in the 4th century CE when Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity. The Edict of Milan, issued by Constantine, granted religious tolerance to Christians, allowing the faith to flourish within the Roman Empire and beyond.
d. Conversion and Evangelism: Early Christians actively evangelized and converted individuals to their faith. The message of salvation and eternal life appealed to people disillusioned with pagan beliefs and Roman society. Over time, these converts, along with missionaries, spread Christianity across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
In summary, the spread of Buddhism and Christianity during 300 BCE to 1000 CE was influenced by factors such as foundational teachings, influential figures, patronage, trade routes, cultural adaptation, official support, and active evangelism. These religions resonated with individuals seeking spiritual fulfillment, social stability, and an escape from suffering, leading to their widespread adoption across different regions.