WHI-Chap16-Harsha

Harsha was the ruler of northern India from 606-647 CE. After the collapse of the Gupta dynasty, northern and southern India acted independently from one another, specifically in the political aspect. Harsha provided a temporary unified rule throughout northern India. Starting at age 16, he traveled with his army throughout northern India. By about 612, he had crushed much of the dissent and rebellious feelings toward his authority. He extended his influence beyond India into several Himalayan states and he exchanged embassies with Emperor Tang Taizong of China. He was a Buddhist, however he accepted other religions. He generously encouraged scholars and he liberally distributed the wealth of his kingdom among his people. His energy and ambition kept his empire together. He spent much of his time on horseback, attempting to solidify alliances with local rulers and maintain a loose empire. After his death, his empire disintegrated without his personality and devotion to political affairs.

Return to the Main Page BY: Jane Labanowski