Ashoka was born in 304 BC and had early success as a military leader, but was exiled to Kalinga after an uprising. He learned about Buddhism and became emperor in 274 BC after a war between brothers. After a bloody battle in Kalinga, Ashoka converted to Buddhism, taking the name Dharmashoka. As emperor, he prioritized the welfare of citizens and spread Buddhism widely before ruling for 40 years until his death.