Buddhism was founded in ancient India by Siddhartha Gautama, a prince who became known as the Buddha ('the enlightened one') in the 5th century BCE.

The core teachings of Buddhism include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, which provide a framework for ending suffering and achieving nirvana.

Key concepts include karma (action and its consequences) and reincarnation.

Buddhism was heavily promoted in India by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, who converted to the faith and sent out missionaries.

The religion spread from India and split into two major branches: Theravada and Mahayana.

Theravada Buddhism, the 'Way of the Elders,' spread to Sri Lanka and much of Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Laos).

Mahayana Buddhism, which introduced new concepts like the bodhisattva, spread north along the Silk Road.

It became the dominant form of Buddhism in China, Tibet, Korea, and Japan.

The spread of Buddhism was largely peaceful, facilitated by missionary work, trade, and its ability to adapt to local cultures.

Buddhism has had a profound influence on the art, philosophy, and culture of Asia.