What is a notable outcome of Ashoka's promotion of Buddhism?

Ashoka's promotion of Buddhism significantly fostered a unifying national identity within his vast empire. By embracing and spreading the principles of Buddhism, especially its messages of non-violence, compassion, and tolerance, Ashoka created a framework for cultural and ethical coherence among the diverse populations across his empire.

His efforts included the construction of stupas, the dissemination of edicts carved on rocks and pillars that communicated Buddhist teachings and values, and the sponsorship of missions to spread Buddhism beyond India, notably to regions such as Central Asia and Southeast Asia. This not only helped create a common set of values that transcended local identities but also contributed to a sense of belonging under a single, enlightened ruler. As a result, the promotion of Buddhism under Ashoka not only unified the people culturally and spiritually but also politically, as they identified with the shared principles derived from Buddhism and Ashoka’s governance.

In contrast, while other options address important aspects of Ashoka's reign and the sociopolitical landscape of the time, they do not capture the primary outcome of his promotion of Buddhism as effectively as the cultivation of a unifying national identity.