Ashoka invaded Kalinga in 261 BC. The Mauryan army ultimately defeated the Kalinga army. According to an Ashoka edict 100,000 people were killed in this war and 150,000 were taken prisoners. This caused misery to many women and children. The death and destruction which followed the Kalinga war made Ashoka sad and unhappy. It became a turning point in his life. He decided he would not fight any more wars, Instead he would tiy and persuade people to live in peace.
