Glencoe World History

"Buddhism"

Introduction
Within a few centuries of the death of the Buddha, the study and practice of Buddhism spread throughout Asia. Today Buddhism is the fourth largest religion in the world. By examining developments among the small community of Buddhists soon after Gautama's death, we can learn how Buddhism spread and changed.

Destination Title: An Introduction to Buddhism

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Directions

Start at the Introduction to Buddhism Web site.

• Scroll down and click on The History of Buddhism.
• Read the article, taking notes as you go. Click on other links to find out more about the life of the Buddha and Buddhist practices.

1			After the Buddha's death, how did a final version of his teachings emerge?
2			For how long after the Buddha's death did Buddhism remain an oral tradition?
3			What methods did Ashoka (also known as Asoka) use to encourage the spread of Buddhism?
4			What is a Sutra? Who wrote the Sutras?
5			While Hinduism remained the major religion in India, Buddhism spread throughout Asia. How can we explain the spread of Buddhism? On a separate sheet of paper, list 10 facts about Buddhism and its history. From your list, identify three facts that you think might help explain the spread of Buddhism. This is called developing a hypothesis. What kinds of historical evidence would support your hypothesis? Write a short paragraph about the supporting evidence a historian might look for.