ABSTRACT
The Pali Canon constitutes the definitive core of Theravada Buddhism. Theravada is the name of one, albeit a prominent one, of the schools of Buddhism that took form in India and Sri Lanka during the centuries following the death of Buddha in the early fifth century bce. The Pali Canon is of enormous value to the student of Buddhism. It is where the documentary history of Buddhism really begins. During his lifetime, Buddha himself was the strong unifying influence among his followers. In addition to being a powerful conqueror, Ashoka was a very interesting personality. By far the most significant evidence that Ashoka's Buddhism was genuine was his sponsorship of missionary activity. The important thing, of course, is that Buddhism established strong healthy roots in Sri Lanka. The Great Council convened in 80 bce, during the reign of King Vattagamani, and the outcome of its work was the Pali Canon.
