List of Gupta emperors

Maharajadhiraja of the Gupta Empire
Imperial
Last to reign
Vishnugupta
540 CE – 550 CE
Details
StyleHis Majesty
First monarchChandragupta I (as the successor to the King of Magadha)
Last monarchVishnugupta
Formation319 CE 1704–1705 years ago
Abolition550 CE 1473–1474 years ago
Residence
AppointerHereditary
Pretender(s)Later Gupta dynasty

The Gupta Empire (c. 319–550 CE) was a classical Indian Hindu empire.[1] The empire was founded by Sri Gupta in late 3rd century CE, but Chandragupta I is credited as real founder of dynasty. The empire was lasted until 550 CE. The factors for the downfall of the empire were Hunnic invasions, dynastic dissensions, taxes, internal rebellions and decentralization.[2]

The Gupta Empire was vast and covered most of the Indian subcontinent. Chandragupta I, Samudragupta, Chandragupta II and Skandagupta were some of its mightiest rulers. It brought about a golden era to the region, resulting in technological advancements and cultural improvements.[3] Gupta emperors generally used the title Maharajadhiraja.[4]

Gupta Empire at its greatest expansion, c. 400 CE
  1. ^ Jha, D.N. (2002). Ancient India in Historical Outline. Delhi: Manohar Publishers and Distributors. pp. 149–73. ISBN 978-81-7304-285-0.
  2. ^ Raghu Vamsa v 4.60–75
  3. ^ N. Jayapalan, History of India, Vol. I, (Atlantic Publishers, 2001), 130.
  4. ^ Shastri, Ajay Mitra (1995). Inscriptions of the Śarabhapurīyas, Pāṇḍuvaṁśins, and Somavaṁśins: Introduction. Motilal Banarsidass Publ. p. 107. ISBN 978-81-208-0635-1.