Based on Edict 1, the Mauryan Empire exhibited which of the following characteristics common to empires in the period 600 B. C. E. to 600 C. E.? (A) Facilitating the organization of subjects through centralized government and bureaucracy (B) Conducting the expansion of trade through merchant-friendly policies (C) Incorporating local elites into expanding imperial armies through coercion and commercial incentives (D) Practicing diplomacy with neighboring states

A. facilitating the organization of subjects through centralized government and bureaucracy is the correct answer.

Explanation:

The Mauryan empire was able to maintain security and political unity in its empire due to carefully organized bureaucratic system, it included a common economic system and successful trade and commerce. The empire was bound together with centralized authority and powerful military. The Mauryan empire had its capital at Patliputra and was divided into four provinces. The emperor and mantri parishad was on the top of administrative hierarchy. Kumara (Princes) governed the provinces with the assistance of Mahamatyas. The Maurayan army was the largest standing force of its time, it was used for eliminating the regional chieftains and their private armies. Strong military and robust administrative network was common features of the empires between 600 BC to 600CE.