In 340 to 298 BCE, thereafter the death of Alexander the Great, Chandragupta Maurya established an empire which consisted most of the Indian subcontinent. The Maurya Empire was an influential military and political force under the command of Chandragupta. Much of his success is credited to Kautilya, who is his counselor, prime minister, and adoptive father. Arthashastra, written by Kautilya, instructed how Chandragupta shall rule his empire, subjects, and maintain his legitimacy with the use of soft power. Utilizing soft power to protect the safety of people maintain the legitimate power of a leader as people listen to authority who provides protection to their life. For example, Book IV: “The Removal of Thorns” of the Arthashastra stated that
