Siddhartha Gautama Born
Prince Siddhartha is born in Lumbini (modern-day Nepal) into the Shakya clan. His birth is accompanied by prophecies of greatness.
The Enlightenment
After years of asceticism and meditation, Siddhartha attains enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. He becomes the Buddha — the Awakened One.
First Sermon at Sarnath
The Buddha delivers his first teaching — the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path — to five companions at Deer Park in Sarnath.
The Buddha Passes Away
At age 80, the Buddha enters Parinirvana in Kushinagar. His teachings are preserved by his disciples.
Emperor Ashoka Spreads Buddhism
After witnessing the horrors of war, Indian Emperor Ashoka converts to Buddhism and sends missionaries across Asia and to the West.
Pali Canon Written Down
The Tripitaka (Pali Canon) — the oldest complete collection of Buddhist texts — is written down in Sri Lanka.
Mahayana Buddhism Emerges
A new school of Buddhism develops, emphasizing the bodhisattva ideal — attaining enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
Buddhism Reaches China
Buddhism spreads to China, transforming into Chan Buddhism (later Zen). It becomes one of China's three major philosophies.
Tibetan Buddhism Established
Guru Padmasambhava brings Buddhism to Tibet, blending it with local Bon practices to create Vajrayana — a distinct and rich tradition.
Buddhism Comes to the West
Anagarika Dharmapala represents Buddhism at the Parliament of World's Religions in Chicago, sparking Western interest.