Duke Mu of Qin vs Mahasena

Duke Mu of Qin led campaigns against the Rong and Di barbarian tribes to the west, conquering twelve minor states and opening up 1,000 li of territory. This expansion strengthened Qin and secured its western flank.

Duke Mu formed an alliance with the state of Jin, marrying his daughter to Duke Hui of Jin. However, when Jin reneged on promises, Duke Mu attacked and defeated Jin at the Battle of Han, capturing Duke Hui.

Duke Mu supported the exiled prince Chong'er, sending troops to help him return to Jin and become Duke Wen. This act created a powerful ally but also a future rival who would challenge Qin's dominance.

Duke Mu's attempt to expand eastward was thwarted by Jin at the Battle of Yao. Qin forces were ambushed and destroyed in a narrow pass, forcing Duke Mu to abandon eastern ambitions and focus on the west.

Mahasena, influenced by the teachings of the monk Sanghamitta, suppressed Theravada Buddhism and destroyed several temples, including the Mahavihara in Anuradhapura. This action caused a schism in the Buddhist community and led to a period of religious conflict.

Mahasena constructed the Minneriya tank, one of the largest irrigation reservoirs in Sri Lanka. The tank, with a circumference of over 20 miles, provided water for agriculture in the dry zone, significantly boosting rice production and supporting a large population.

Mahasena built the Kavudulla tank, another major irrigation reservoir in the North Central Province. This tank, along with Minneriya, formed part of a network of reservoirs that transformed the dry zone into a productive agricultural region.

Mahasena constructed the Giritale tank, a large irrigation reservoir near Polonnaruwa. This tank further expanded the irrigation network in the dry zone, demonstrating Mahasena's focus on water management and agricultural development.

Later in his reign, Mahasena reversed his anti-Buddhist policies and restored the Mahavihara. He also built the Jetavanaramaya, a large stupa in Anuradhapura, which became a major center of Buddhist worship.