Here is a link to Asoka’s rock edicts: Edicts Ashoka died in 232 BC, 232 years before Christ.
This King of what today is modern day India, fought a battle out of which he conquered Kalinga, killing 100,000 people, or so.
After the battle the king had an awakening and decreed that all humans and animals were to be treated harmlessly and equally. He was the first person to do this, yet, he was virtually unknown until 1832 and was not recognized for greatness until 1915.
Today, who has heard of Ashoka? I watched a PBS show The Story of India that highlighted his story. Its fantastic as he was the first king or leader of large populations who called for in effect non violence, and, for the harmless treatment of all humans and animals.
Please read this article or order the DVD, the Story of India, from PBS.org
Bob
