History of Hinduism

By gmorgan
  • 2300 BCE

    Creation

    Creation
    Hinduism was created between the years of 2300-1500 BCE. It originated in the region that is modern Pakistan. Hindus believe the faith has always existed since the beginning of time.
  • 1600 BCE

    Aryan Invasion

    Aryan Invasion
    Aryans invaded the Indus River region. This is where Hinduism is just starting to grow. The Aryans bring the language of Sanscript which greatly influences the Hindu religion.
  • 1500 BCE

    Vedic Ages

    Vedic Ages
    The Vedas, the oldest scripture known to Hindus, is written. During this time, urban developments are starting to form along with the ideas of rebirth.
  • 800 BCE

    The Upanishads

    The Upanishads
    The Upanishads were written in this age. These were texts that popularize the ideas of rebirth, karma, Moksha, and Nirvana.
  • 500 BCE

    Epics and Puranas

    Epics and Puranas
    The Epics and Puranas give info on the origins of man and celestial beings. These texts influenced devotional Hinduism having Hindus commit to either Shiva or Vishnu.
  • 320 BCE

    The Maurya Empire

    The Maurya Empire
    Largest empire in the world at the time. This empire embraced Hinduism as its main religion. Would later move to Buddhism.
  • 320

    Gupta Empire

    Gupta Empire
    Founded by Maharaja Sri Gupta. Brought peace to India which allowed for the spread of Hinduism.
  • 500

    Fall of Gupta

    Fall of Gupta
    The Gupta empire falls to the Hun. This puts the former empire into small fragments.
  • 501

    Medieval Period

    Medieval Period
    New texts regarding Hinduism have emerged. Poet saint record spiritual sentiments at this time. Lasts from 500 to 1500
  • 1498

    Vasco de Gama

    Vasco de Gama
    Vasco de Gama was a Portuguese explorer who was the first to sail to India. His arrival brought forth the beginning of Western involvement in the region.

  • Renaissance

    Renaissance
    Modern ideas about Hinduism are brought to light. These include social reform and how sacred texts should be interpreted.

  • British East India Company

    British East India Company
    The company wins trading rights in India as the Moghal empire is in decline. The company has a major influence on the region.

  • Direct British Rule of India

    Direct British Rule of India
    The Parliament of Great Britain takes over the as the governing power of India replacing the privately owned British East India Company. This new control was started by the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

  • Gandhi

    Gandhi
    Gandhi leads a peaceful noncooperation protest against the British for 2 years. He becomes the face of the Indian Nationalist Movement.

  • Partition of India

    Partition of India
    Britain agrees to have India become its own nation. A Muslim leader suggests that the land be split for Muslims and Hindus. This division of land leads to mass migration and lots of death.