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In the fifth century, large parts of India were united under Ashoka. He also converted to Buddhism, and it is in his reign that Buddhism spread to other parts of Asia.
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After centuries of being split into small kingdoms and republics, India is ruled by the Gupta Empire. Under the rule of the Gupta kings, Hinduism becomes the major religion of the empire. Literature, art, architecture and science flourish during this "classical age"
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Eager to gain access to India's spices, rice, silk, tea and jewels, Holland, Great Britain and France establish key trading posts in India.
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The first trading expedition was sent out
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Mogul Emperor Shah Jahan begins construction of the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife Mumtaz.
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The British overthrow the Moguls and take control of India.
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India gains independence from the British and is divided into two countries, India and Muslim-controlled Pakistan.
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India tests its first nuclear weapon, one of only seven nations to have done so.
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India becomes a Sovereign Democratic Republic (Jan.26) and Constitution of India comes into force
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Indira Gandhi (not related to Mahatma) becomes Prime Minister and one of the first women elected to lead a nation.
