The empire that included the territories of northern India and Pakistan was the Maurya Empire. Founded in the 4th century BCE by Chandragupta Maurya, this empire became one of the largest and most powerful in ancient Indian history. It is particularly known for the reign of Ashoka, who expanded the empire and later converted to Buddhism, promoting peace and non-violence. The Maurya Empire played a crucial role in the dissemination of trade, culture, and religious ideas, significantly influencing the political landscape and cultural identity of the Indian subcontinent.