Age of the Nandas and Mauryas c11.107

c11.107

It is a matter for surprise that the classical writers who have so much to say regarding the Indian campaigns of Alexander should preserve reticence in regard to the details of the famous struggle to which Appian refers. Even the date of the war and its total duration are not known for certain. Appian informs us that the fight went on "until they (i.e., the Syrian and Indian Kings) came to an understanding with each other and contracted a marriage relationship (kedos)." He adds that some of the exploits of Seleucus were performed "before the death of Antigonus (at Ipsus, 301 B.C.) and some afterwards."⁴ The "understanding" or treaty with Chandragupta and "settlement of affairs in the East" are definitely dated by Justin before Seleucus' return home to prosecute the war with Antigonus.⁵ Pliny refers to the opening up of India with its numberless nations and cities by the arms of Alexander, Seleucus and Antiochus, but gives no details that might have thrown light on the war with Chandragupta.¹